In the heart of Italy's Piedmont region, an illustrious wine reigns supreme.

Oh yes - join us this month as we focus this month on...Barolo!

All Barolo are crafted from the Nebbiolo grape, renowned for producing some of the world's most exquisite and long-lived red wines.

Barolo has a storied history that dates back centuries. The Nebbiolo grape, named after the fog (nebbia) that often blankets the vineyards during harvest, has been cultivated in Piedmont since at least the 13th century.

Barolo was often referred to as the "King of Wines and the Wine of Kings." 

Modern history began in the mid-19th century when the Marchesa Giulia Falletti of Barolo and French enologist Louis Oudart transformed the wine from a sweet, sparkling style into a dry, robust red. The new style quickly gained favor with nobility and became a symbol of prestige and power.

Barolo exhibits unique characteristics influenced by the different terroirs or "Cru" and of course, the winemaking practices. Understanding their flavor profiles is essential for appreciating these iconic wines.

They are known for their powerful tannins and crisp taste, which give them significant aging potential. The wines often require several years of aging to soften and reveal their complexity.

They often have bold and intense flavors of cherries, strawberries, and raspberries.  As Barolo ages, it develops secondary flavors that add depth and complexity. Lots of flavors add layers, from dried roses, violets, truffles, and licorice.

The floral and earthy elements create a captivating aromatic profile and with extended aging, good Barolo reveals tertiary flavors of figs and prunes, tobacco, leather, cinnamon and clove.

Barolo's 11 communes each impart distinct characteristics to the wine.

For example, Serralunga d'Alba produces more structured and tannic wines, while La Morra yields more aromatic and softer styles.

Domenico Clerico is a revered name in the world of Barolo. Founded in the 1970s, the estate is located in the Monforte d'Alba commune, an area known for producing some of the most structured and intense Barolos.

They were a pioneer of modern Barolo, employing innovative vineyard and cellar techniques to produce wines of exceptional quality and longevity.

Their Barolo, particularly the "Pajana," are celebrated for their depth, complexity, and age-worthiness.

Contact us at SWE, if you would like to explore the wines of Clerico!

Diego Conterno, a traditionalist at heart, has been making waves in the Barolo region with his meticulously crafted wines.

After co-founding the Conterno-Fantino winery, Diego branched out on his own in 2000, establishing his estate in Monforte d'Alba.

His approach marries respect for tradition with precise winemaking, resulting in Barolos that express purity of fruit, elegance, and a sense of place. Diego Conterno's "Ginestra" Barolo is particularly esteemed for its balance and refinement.

Reach out to us at SWE to taste Diego Conterno Barolo for yourself and understand the great value on offer with this producer!

Barolo represents the pinnacle of Italian winemaking, showcasing the Nebbiolo grape's ability to produce wines of profound complexity and longevity.

If you enjoy the powerful, tannic structure of a Serralunga d'Alba or the elegant, approachable nature of a La Morra, these wines offer a sensory journey through the heart of Piedmont.

With producers like Domenico Clerico and Diego Conterno leading the charge, the future of Barolo looks as bright as ever.

Contact us at SWE if you would like to try aged Barolo, we are able to source many wines on request. 

Also, contact us if you would like to be on the "Rare Wine List" at SWE. It is released every month on a first come, first served basis and includes rarities and unique finds that we track down for your pleasure.