Ca' Viola, Barolo Sottocastello di Novello 2019
Beppe Caviola is one of the most sought-after consultants in Piedmont, but he keeps his own vineyard in Novello to himself. This organic Barolo comes from a single vineyard directly below the castle of Novello, at an altitude of about 400 meters. The 2019 combines the warmth of the year with the freshness that this altitude offers.
What you smell
Menthol and eucalyptus upfront, followed by warm spices, dried rose petals and a hint of dark chocolate. Beneath that, something smoky, like autumn leaves and tobacco.
What you taste
Surprisingly silky for a Barolo of this age. The tannins are present but fine-grained, providing grip without drying. Good acidity keeps everything in balance. The finish is long, with recurring notes of spices and a slightly bitter almond note. Can be drunk now, but has at least ten years ahead of it.
How it's made
100% Nebbiolo. Fermented in concrete vats, then aged for 24 months in large Slavonian oak barrels (botti). Another 12 months rest in cement before bottling. No new wood, so the grape and the vineyard are central.
Serve
14-15°C, cooler than you might expect for red wine. Decant for at least an hour. Use a large Burgundy glass.
Pairs well with
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Venison stew with red wine sauce: the wild character of the meat is echoed in the spicy, earthy notes of the wine.
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Fresh tagliatelle with white truffle: the subtle bitterness and tannin structure cut through the richness of butter and truffle.
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Leg of lamb with rosemary: the herbs in the dish mirror the spiciness in the wine, while the fat softens the tannins.
Click here for the technical details of this wine
