Fontanafredda Vigna La Rosa Barolo 2012

Fontanafredda, a historic estate in the heart of Piedmont, is renowned for producing some of the finest Barolo wines. The Fontanafredda Vigna La Rosa Barolo 2012 comes from the esteemed single vineyard Vigna La Rosa in Serralunga d'Alba, a site known for producing powerful yet refined Barolos. The 2012 vintage was marked by a cooler growing season, which resulted in a wine with excellent balance, vibrant acidity, and well-structured tannins, making it approachable now but with great aging potential. This single-vineyard Barolo showcases the elegance, depth, and complexity that the Nebbiolo grape can achieve in this exceptional terroir.

Appearance: Deep garnet red with a slight brick hue, indicating maturity and elegance.

Aroma: The nose is rich and complex, with aromas of red cherry, wild strawberry, and dried plum, intertwined with classic Barolo notes of rose petals, tar, and earthy truffle. There are also subtle hints of tobacco, leather, and sweet spices like cinnamon and clove, adding further layers of complexity.

Taste: On the palate, this Barolo is full-bodied and structured, with flavours of ripe red fruits such as cherry and raspberry, complemented by earthy notes of leather, forest floor, and a touch of black tea. The tannins are firm yet smooth, providing structure without overwhelming the fruit, while the vibrant acidity adds freshness and balance.

Finish: The finish is long and elegant, with lingering notes of red fruit, spice, and a touch of minerality, reflecting the wine’s depth and aging potential.

Food pairing: This Barolo pairs beautifully with rich, savoury dishes such as braised beef, osso buco, or roasted game, where the wine’s tannins and acidity complement the richness of the meat. It also pairs well with truffle-based dishes or mushroom risotto, as the wine’s earthy notes mirror those flavours. Aged cheeses like Parmigiano-Reggiano or Gorgonzola also bring out the wine’s complexity.