Fontanafredda Proprietà in Fontanafredda Barolo Organic 2018

Fontanafredda is a historic Langhe estate in Piedmont with a 19th-century story tied to the house of Savoy. This Barolo draws on Nebbiolo from vineyards around the property in Serralunga d'Alba, on the calcareous clay marls that give the wine its structure and savoury depth. The continental climate brings warm days and cold nights, a diurnal range that helps this late-ripening grape develop aromatics while retaining its high natural acidity. Vinification is traditional: fermentation on the skins to draw out tannin and colour, then around 24 months in oak barrels followed by a further year in bottle before release. The slow barrel ageing and oxygen exchange tame Nebbiolo's grip and build its tertiary character, while organic farming keeps the fruit precise. The wine is garnet with a ruby hint. The nose shows dried cherry, rose, tobacco and leather over a liquorice base. The palate is full bodied, with firm tannins, bright acidity and red fruit, dried herbs and a touch of oak carrying to a long finish. Serve at 17 to 18 degrees and decant well ahead. Best with hearty meat dishes.