In his new report reviewing 2019 Barolo releases, Antonio Galloni has showered this “stellar vintage” with praise, noting that even though the summer brought intense heat, opportune rain and instinctive decision-making on the winemakers’ part led to wines that “don’t taste like wines from a warm vintage at all.” Following an inconsistent 2018, this return to form might very well signal a new cycle of strong to exceptional vintages for this storied appellation.
Those who value Nebbiolo’s complexity and finesse will be enthralled by the 2019 Barolo wines and their powerful, tightly-wound structures, which currently have the sort of youthful austerity akin to vintages like 2016, 2005, and 1999.
A relatively dry winter and typically warmer-than-average temperatures marked the start of the year before colder conditions and rainfall saw bud break delayed by two weeks. Though persistent rain threatened a repeat of the previous year, thankfully it turned out to be quite benign. The summer months were met with warmer weather balanced with rainfall and cool nights which led up to an ideal, slightly later harvest.
Among the stars are Vietti, with Barolo Ravera earning 100 points from Galloni, citing its energy and tension as exciting characteristics. Giacomo Conterno’s Barolo Riserva Monfortino comes in just behind at 97-99 points showing incredible refinement for its relative youth, and showing plenty of tannin and structure. Also, following the sad passing of Luciano Sandrone, both Barolo Le Vigne and Aleste scored 97 points and were praised for their energy and potential development.
WineCap sees a real opportunity in Italy at the moment and the wines of Piedmont in general. Keep an eye out for offers coming over the next few weeks. Many of these wines are not available yet, but rest assured that when they are, we will be certain to let you know.
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