Prapo Barolo 2018

From the prestigious slopes of Serralunga d'Alba, in the heart of the historic Barolo region of Piedmont, this wine comes from the Prapò cru, a steeply sloping vineyard facing predominantly south and southeast. The soils here are composed of clay-limestone marl rich in micro-elements, giving the wine structure and depth. Located at an intermediate altitude, the vineyard benefits from significant temperature variations, which promote slow and complete ripening of the grapes, while preserving freshness and aromatic complexity.

The Nebbiolo grapes are hand-harvested in the Prapò cru, then destemmed and crushed before alcoholic fermentation in stainless steel tanks with extended maceration on the skins, accompanied by regular pump-overs. Malolactic fermentation then takes place in large oak casks or barrels, where the wine is aged for an extended period to refine the tannins and develop the aromatic complexity typical of Barolo di Schiavenza, before bottling after a further period of rest in the cellar.

This wine reveals notes of black cherry , ripe red fruits , and plum , supported by floral nuances of dried rose and violet , complemented by spicy touches of licorice , pepper , and sweet spices , as well as a subtle oakiness of tobacco and cedar . On the palate, the wine is full-bodied and structured, driven by lively acidity, firm yet polished tannins, and a long, precise, and flavorful finish.

Ah, Italy, what a beautiful, hedonistic country, the land of la dolce vita, but how difficult it is to understand its wine industry! The key to understanding the appellation system in Italy is to think of it as several small countries rather than a single homogeneous nation, as each region has its own appellation system. Italy can offer wine lovers a multitude of wines with varied and unique flavors and styles, bottles brimming with surprise and creativity. Unfortunately, it also produces a large quantity of soulless, characterless wines sold under their most commercially useful and prestigious name: Pinot Grigio, Chianti, Valpolicella, Lambrusco, Prosecco, and many others... But let's talk a little history. Viticulture in Italy dates back to antiquity and originated in Greece. The Etruscans are said to have introduced the vine, and Greek immigrants improved and modified the grape varieties, subsequently calling the country "Oenotria": the land of wine. At the height of the Roman Empire, wine held an important place in daily life, and certain regions already distinguished themselves by the excellence of their product. The Romans also established numerous vineyards in Europe, leaving an indelible mark of their conquest. Today, Italy is the world's largest wine producer, ahead of France. Italy is divided into three climatic zones. The northern mountains have a rather harsh mountain climate. The plains of the "central boot" are characterized by a continental climate with cold winters and hot, stormy summers. In the southern part of the Italian boot, the Mediterranean climate prevails, with very hot and dry summers, not forgetting the islands of Sicily and Sardinia. In short, Italy produces a wide variety of wines thanks to its 200 different grape varieties, many of which originated in its own lands. It is a country as complex as its wines, which deserve to be explored!