Early spring in Barolo

The First 2018 Barolo: Barale

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Last week I returned from my first visit to Piedmont in 3 years. The trip was about one-half the length of past years (19 visits v. 36+), but it was wonderful to be back in the Langhe, and to see old friends. We mostly tasted 2018 Barolo; it may not be a vintage of the century, but contrary to much of what’s been written our small group found a lot to like, with many wines showing beautiful transparency and typicity. Admittedly it’s a self-fulfilling prophecy when you visit favorites; particular highlights included (in alpha order) Boggione, Brovia, Canonica, Principiano, Sandri, Trediberri, along with other Usual Suspects.

Tasting with Eleonara Barale                                                                  

 

Barale was also very successful in 2018; they are on an extended streak, making very fine, expressive wine (that also happen to offer great quality : price). Barale’s vines are certified organic, and the winemaking is old school and straightforward. Their 2018 Barolo “di Barolo” will be among the first to arrive (in early June), so we are excited to offer it on a pre-arrival basis. Jamie Wolff

 

 

 

 

 

Barale 2018 Barolo di Barolo

Called “Barolo di Barolo” because the fruit comes from vineyards in the town of Barolo, this is labeling that we’re seeing more of these days. The wine shows some of the best aspects of the good 2018s – lovely light weight, savory and easy drinking, with entrancing citrus, rose, and earthy notes. A wine more on the side of finesse than power, it’s nonetheless complete. It will drink very well now and for the next 10+ years. Jamie Wolff

  • red
  • 7 in stock
  • $46.99

  • Organic

Barale 2021 Dolcetto d'Alba Le Rose

A lovely light-mid weight Dolcetto, very fresh with good acidity and classically tannic, this combines bright red fruit and savory herbal notes; this will gain complexity with just a little more time in bottle. Jamie Wolff

  • red
  • 48 in stock
  • $22.99

  • Organic

Barale 2020 Langhe Nebbiolo

Again the Barales achieve a fascinating balance of savory character and fruit, all in a medium-bodied wine that’s quite structured with ripe tannin, with very good length. Another classic. Jamie Wolff

  • red
  • 6 in stock
  • $26.99

  • Organic
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Barale 2020 Barbera d'Alba Castle

As with the Barale Dolcetto and Nebbiolo, the Barbera could serve as a text-book example of the grape. The 2020 a fine balance between very ripe fruit and very fresh, mouthwatering acidity – deliciously lush, crisp, and mineral all at once, this really outperforms. Jamie Wolff

  • Out of Stock
  • red
  • 0 in stock
  • $24.99

  • Organic