Marchesi di Barolo

Marchesi di Barolo Barolo Sarmassa DOCG 2016

96 points

James Suckling

About

The Marchesi di Barolo estate encompasses approximately 430 acres of vineyards in the Langhe, some of the finest in Piedmont, including the prestigious Cannubi cru. The cellars are located in the village of Barolo, overlooking the Renaissance castle of the Marchesi Falletti di Barolo. Barolo as we know it today was first made in the early 19th century by the Marchese Carlo Tancredi Falletti di Barolo and his wife, Giulia.

Terroir

The Sarmassa vineyard is located on a hill in Barolo exposed to the southeast, where the Tortonian soils are calcareous clayey, very compact and equipped with a fairly high percentage of gravel and stones: all these conditions lead to a limited vegetative vigor resulting in concentration of oenological characteristics in terms of structure.

Vinification

The grapes are rigorously harvested by hand and a selection of the best bunches is made already in the vineyard. Once it arrives in the cellar, it is selectively destemmed and delicately pressed. Alcoholic fermentation takes place at a controlled temperature: a range of 24-26°C is maintained to preserve all the aromatic potential characteristic of the specific terroir. Through repeated delestage and pumping over, we proceed with a maceration of 15-18 days aimed at gradually maximum extraction of the noble polyphenolic part of the skins.

Tasting Notes

The color is intense ruby red with a tendency towards garnet. On the nose it is pervasive, with a wide range of spices, among which liquorice stands out in perfect harmony with notes of red fruit jam; hints of vanilla bean and sweet pipe tobacco emerge on the finish. The taste is rich and decisive, with a notable structure: powerful and elegant at the same time.

Food Pairing

It is the ideal companion for egg pasta, tajarin and ravioli with sauces such as game ragout and truffles. For meats, it goes well with red meats, roasted or braised, game and venison. Lastly, it pairs magnificently with sheep's and goat's cheeses or mature hard cheeses.

Appellation

Barolo

Vineyard

Sarmassa

Sizes Available

750 ML, 1.5 L

Awards & Recognition

93 points

Wine Enthusiast

Aromas of dark-skinned berry, coconut, French oak and blue flower lead the nose. On the tense taut palate, fine-grained tannins accompany mature plum, dried cherry, vanilla and coffee bean while fresh acidity keeps it balanced. Drink 2024–2036.