What kind of wine is Barolo Riserva DOCG 'Essenze' 2015 - Vite Colte
Barolo Riserva DOCG 'Essenze' 2015 - Vite Colte is one of the highest expressions of Piedmontese winemaking tradition. It is made from Nebbiolo grapes sourced from the historic cru vineyards of the Langhe, meticulously selected only in exceptional vintages. It is a structured, elegant, and profound wine, representing the perfect synthesis between the power of Barolo and the finesse that only long aging can bestow.
Vintage details
The 2015 vintage was characterized by a mild winter and a balanced summer, with warm days and cool nights that favored optimal ripening of the Nebbiolo grapes. The result is a harmonious wine, capable of combining intensity and freshness. Each sip tells of the perfect balance between ripe fruit, tannic structure, and aromatic complexity, making this Riserva one of the most appreciated of recent harvests.
Winemaking and aging
The vinification of Barolo Riserva DOCG 'Essenze' 2015 follows traditional methods: the grapes are destemmed and fermented at controlled temperatures with a long maceration on the skins, which allows for the extraction of noble tannins and the typical aromas of Nebbiolo. This is followed by a long aging period of 36 months in oak barrels, supplemented by an additional two years of rest in the bottle. This process results in a highly complex wine, capable of evolving over time without losing harmony.
Tasting notes
Barolo Riserva DOCG 'Essenze' 2015 - Vite Colte is a wine of extraordinary elegance and depth, designed for those who wish to discover the full richness of Nebbiolo in one of its noblest expressions.
Color
Visually, it presents an intense garnet red with orange reflections, typical of the evolution of great Barolo Riserva wines. The color already hints at a mature wine, full of personality and charm.
Nose
The aroma is broad and complex: notes of ripe red fruits, sweet spices, tobacco, and a slight balsamic hint emerge. With aeration, more evolved nuances of leather and licorice unfold, a sign of perfect evolution in wood and glass.
Palate
On the palate, it is full, harmonious, and surprisingly balanced. The tannins, the natural substances that give the wine structure and longevity, are well integrated with the fruity component. The finish is long and enveloping, with hints of cherry in spirits and noble spices.
Food pairings for Barolo Riserva DOCG 'Essenze' 2015 - Vite Colte
This wine is ideal for accompanying intense and structured dishes, capable of standing up to the decisive character of Barolo. Perfect for special occasions or to be enjoyed as a meditation wine. Here are some suggested pairings:
- Stewed or roasted red meats, such as braised beef in Barolo and black pepper fillet
- Feathered or furred game, especially roe deer and wild boar
- Aged hard cheeses such as Parmigiano Reggiano or Castelmagno
A memorable pairing? Roe deer leg flavored with juniper berries, which enhances the structure and complexity of this Barolo Riserva.
Storage and aging: how to store Barolo Riserva DOCG 'Essenze' 2015 - Vite Colte
Like all great age-worthy wines, Barolo Riserva DOCG 'Essenze' 2015 - Vite Colte should be stored carefully to allow for a slow and fascinating evolution over time. The bottle should be kept horizontally, away from light and heat sources, at a constant temperature of about 14-16°C and with controlled humidity. Under these conditions, it can age for over ten years, developing further aromatic nuances and a unique roundness.
A collector's wine, but above all, one to be enjoyed at the right moment: its elegance and depth tell the best of the Langhe and the Vite Colte style.
Vite Colte
The history of Vite Colte winery Vite Colte is a name that resonates as a synonym for tradition and innovation in the world of wine. Originating from a cooperative of passionate farmers, the winery is built on a heritage of traditional techniques handed down from generation to generation, while e...
How to best open and serve Barolo Riserva DOCG 'Essenze' 2015 - Vite Colte
1. Bottle positioning
Before opening Barolo Riserva DOCG 'Essenze' 2015 - Vite Colte, it is crucial to position the bottle correctly. If it has been stored horizontally, place it upright at least 24 hours before opening. This allows natural sediments to settle at the bottom, preventing the wine from becoming cloudy during service.
Avoid moving or shaking the bottle and ensure it remains in a cool place, away from direct light or heat sources.
2. Ideal serving temperature
The Barolo Riserva 2015 best expresses its aromatic complexity when served at the right temperature. The ideal serving temperature is between 18°C and 20°C. If the wine is stored in a cellar at a lower temperature, let it rest at room temperature for about an hour before opening.
3. Opening the bottle
For an aged wine like Barolo Riserva DOCG 'Essenze' 2015 - Vite Colte, opening requires attention and delicacy:
- Use a lever corkscrew or a waiter's friend corkscrew to avoid damaging the cork.
- Cut the capsule below the rim and clean the bottle neck.
- Slowly extract the cork, ensuring it doesn't break or crumble.
If the cork appears particularly fragile, consider using a two-prong cork puller for added safety.
4. Inspection and initial tasting
After opening the bottle, smell the cork and check for any unpleasant odors. Pour a small amount of wine into a glass for an initial taste: this serves to check the quality of the wine and confirm that there are no defects, such as cork taint or excessive oxidation.
5. Decanting and aeration
Being a wine of great structure and complexity, Barolo Riserva DOCG 'Essenze' 2015 - Vite Colte greatly benefits from decanting. Slowly pour the wine into a carafe or decanter, allowing the sediments to remain in the bottle.
It is recommended to let it breathe for at least 1-2 hours before serving, so that the aromas open up and the tannic texture softens. During this phase, avoid exposing the wine to drafts or temperature variations.
6. Serving
Serve the wine in large, preferably tulip-shaped, glasses to allow for proper aeration and to enhance the complex bouquet of the Barolo. Fill them only one-third full, so the wine can release its aromas. When pouring, do so slowly and with controlled movement to avoid disturbing any residue.
7. Storage after opening
If you don't finish the bottle, re-seal it with an airtight stopper or use a vacuum system. Store it in the refrigerator or a cool, dark place. Barolo Riserva DOCG 'Essenze' 2015 - Vite Colte keeps best for 2-3 days after opening, maintaining its main aromas unchanged. Before serving it again, gradually bring it back to the ideal serving temperature.