Aurelio Settimo, Barolo DOCG 2019 (Nebbiolo)

Aurelio Settimo is a family-run winery in La Morra, one of Barolo’s most esteemed villages, known for producing elegant yet structured Nebbiolo wines. Following a traditional winemaking philosophy, the estate focuses on purity of expression, allowing the terroir to shine through. Their Barolo DOCG 2019 is a classic example of La Morra’s style refined yet powerful with grapes grown in calcareous clay soils that contribute to the wine’s balance of finesse and structure. Aged in large Slavonian oak barrels, this Barolo is approachable in its youth but has the depth and tannic backbone for long-term ageing.

Appearance: Deep garnet with vibrant ruby highlights, showing the wine’s youthful energy. The rim has a slight orange hue, hinting at the beginning of Nebbiolo’s graceful evolution. The wine is highly translucent, with slow, elegant legs that suggest a well-structured body and balanced alcohol.

Aroma: Intense and multi-layered, with notes of ripe red cherries, wild strawberries, and dried rose petals. Earthy undertones of truffle, forest floor, and cedar add depth, while hints of liquorice, tobacco, and orange zest provide further complexity. As it opens, delicate touches of balsamic, anise, and white pepper emerge, enhancing the wine’s aromatic finesse.

Taste: Bold yet harmonious, with a core of juicy red fruit, including sour cherry, cranberry, and pomegranate, lifted by Nebbiolo’s natural acidity. The tannins are firm but already beginning to soften, providing structure without overwhelming the palate. Mid-palate flavours of liquorice, nutmeg, and dried herbs add complexity, while a mineral streak from the vineyard’s limestone-rich soils gives the wine precision and elegance.

Finish: Exceptionally long and refined, with lingering notes of red fruit, dried roses, and a touch of savoury spice. The tannins remain present yet polished, ensuring further development in the bottle. A final hint of truffle, balsamic, and cedar leaves a sophisticated and memorable impression.

Food Pairing: Pairs beautifully with braised duck with porcini mushrooms, where the wine’s acidity and tannins enhance the dish’s richness while complementing its earthy depth. Also an excellent match with aged Parmigiano Reggiano, as the wine’s structure balances the cheese’s nutty intensity while harmonising with its umami complexity