How to Choose a Barolo Wine

Barolo made exclusively from the finicky Nebbiolo grapes that grown on the tiny 3,000 acres of the Barolo Appellation. Not for the faint of heart, this red wine is big, bold and only gets better with age.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

1. Attend a wine tasting. This is the best introduction to Barolo. It allows you to experience many types of wine while having an expert explain the differences. Check with the local fine-dining restaurants to see when the next tasting is scheduled.

2. Understand the aging requirements for Barolo. All Barolo wines must be aged for a minimum of three years: one year in the bottle and two years in the barrel.

3. Know what to expect in a young Barolo. When this wine is young the flavors aren't as well-rounded. It is harsh, brassy and even a little pushy, but it still tastes wonderful.

4. Know what to expect in a mature Barolo. It is dry, full-bodied and goes down like velvet.

5. Learn about Barolo Riserva. When the Barolo wine label says "Riserva," the wine has been aged for a minimum of five years.

6. Seek advice at the local wine store. There is always one person at the store that knows every wine the store sells. Don't be afraid to ask him for advice. Just about every town (except dry ones) has one store known for selling good wine.

Tips & Warnings

• When drinking a young Barolo, allow it to breathe for one to two hours before serving. Using a decanter will work best for aerating this wine.
• For a more mature Barolo, allow it to breathe for about an hour before serving. Again, use a decanter.
• Don't aerate the wine if you are lucky enough to have bottle of Barolo that is more than 15 years old. Older wines have the tendency to begin to break down when exposed to air.

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Resources

• Find more information on the varieties of wine at Thewinenews.
• Learn more about Barolo and other Italian wines at Lifeinitaly.