Barale Barolo Castellero 2019
Barale's holdings in Castellero, comprising about half, provide not only ample space for reserving Barolo for Chinato but also a delightful patch for Barbera and a touch of Chardonnay for their refined sparkling wines. Castellero, while initially a bit reserved and unyielding, matures gracefully to reveal its intriguing character. It possesses a Burgundian finesse, with subtle earthy, root vegetable, or tobacco undertones reminiscent of Gevrey (or its nearby neighbor, Castiglione).
Alongside the expected notes of dried rose, cranberry, and cherry skin, this vintage adds a touch of concentrated red plum, maintaining its finesse and offering a symphony of swirling aromatics once given time to breathe or age. Located at the crossroads of Barolo (its nominal comune), Monforte d'Alba, and Castiglione Falletto, Castellero's profile is so captivating that it could easily be mistaken as a Castiglione wine, with a hint of Monforte tannins. Truly a wine that piques curiosity and fascinates the palate.
Barolo, Barolo, the "King of Wines," pairs wonderfully with red meats like beef and lamb, truffle-infused pasta, aged cheeses, wild mushrooms, braised dishes, venison, grilled portobello mushrooms, and even dark chocolate desserts, allowing its bold, complex flavors to shine alongside a variety of dishes.
This wine showcases an exceptional, well-calibrated leap in quality that impeccably matches its price point. It unfolds with remarkable depth and length, accompanied by a harmonious progression of seriously high-quality grape tannins. It maintains an exemplary flow and structure, resulting in a wine of exquisite length and a truly divine character. The incredible complexity and seamless harmony within make it a wine in which individual aromas and flavors cannot be separated.
It delights the palate with a wonderful interplay of flavors, encompassing luscious fruit, savory notes, baking spices, and herbal tea nuances. Each sniff reveals a new layer of perfume, adding depth to the sensory experience. Despite its youthful stage, it offers a captivating sense of pleasure, characterized by its impeccable development and a palpable surge of energy. Exceptional in its youth, it promises even greater rewards with additional time spent in the bottle.
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