Vietti Castiglione Barolo 2019

Vietti is a benchmark name in Barolo, and this Castiglione bottling is their most classical expression, drawn from Nebbiolo grown across ten vineyards classified as MGA, the Italian equivalent of a named cru. Nebbiolo is a late-ripening grape high in both tannin and acidity, which is why Barolo demands long ageing to soften. The calcareous marl and sandstone soils of the Langhe, together with warm days and cool autumn nights, ripen the tannins fully while keeping the wine fresh and perfumed. It is aged thirty months in barrel, the extended time and slow oxygen exchange through the wood gradually resolving the firm tannic structure and building tertiary complexity, in line with Barolo's ageing rules. The colour is the classic pale garnet, the nose layered with red cherry, dried rose, tar, leather, tobacco and liquorice. The palate is full-bodied and structured, with high acidity, firm gripping tannins and a long, savoury, earthy finish that will soften further with cellaring. Serve at 17 to 18 degrees, decanted well ahead, with braised beef, game or truffle dishes.