What kind of wine is Barolo Riserva DOCG 'Perno' 2017 - Elio Sandri
The Barolo Riserva DOCG 'Perno' 2017 - Elio Sandri is a red wine of extraordinary elegance, an authentic expression of Nebbiolo, the king of grapes in the Langhe. Hailing from the hills of Monforte d’Alba, in one of the most acclaimed subzones of the Barolo DOCG appellation, this wine represents the perfect balance between power, depth, and finesse.
The body is structured and harmonious, with a profile that combines tradition and the skillful hand of Elio Sandri, a producer known for his artisanal and nature-respecting approach. It is a Barolo designed for those who love great meditation wines, but also for those seeking a complete sensory experience at the table.
Vintage details
The 2017 vintage was characterized by a warm and dry climate, which led to a concentrated ripening of the Nebbiolo grapes. Yields were limited, with small bunches and thick skins, capable of giving the wine exceptional aromatic richness and mature tannins. Despite the challenging climatic conditions, the Barolo 'Perno' 2017 shows surprising freshness and a balance that speaks to Sandri's care and sensitivity in the vineyard.
Winemaking and aging
Barolo Riserva 'Perno' 2017 is vinified according to the purest tradition. Fermentation occurs spontaneously in concrete tanks, with long maceration on the skins, useful for extracting color, tannins, and complex aromas. Aging continues for over 60 months in large Slavonian oak barrels, where the wine slowly evolves, acquiring tertiary nuances and unparalleled depth.
Tasting notes
A Barolo that strikes with its balance between intensity and harmony. Every sip tells the strong personality of the "Perno" vineyard and the sensitivity of the producer.
Color
In the glass, it presents an intense garnet color with orangey reflections typical of Nebbiolo's evolution. The wine's transparency indicates its purity and traditional processing.
Nose
On the nose, it opens with deep aromas of ripe cherry, withered rose, and sweet spices. With aeration, notes of tobacco, licorice, and undergrowth emerge. A complex and continuously evolving bouquet, inviting discovery with every glass.
Palate
On the palate, it stands out for its solid structure and elegant tannins, perfectly integrated. The entry is decisive but balanced by a lively freshness. The persistence is long, with a finish that recalls the spicy and balsamic notes perceived on the nose.
What dishes to pair with Barolo Riserva DOCG 'Perno' 2017 - Elio Sandri
Thanks to its complexity and tannic structure, this Barolo pairs well with rich and flavorful dishes. Ideal pairings include:
- Grilled or braised red meats
- Game and Piedmontese stews
- Long-aged cheeses
- Mushroom and truffle-based dishes
Also excellent as a meditation wine, to be slowly savored to appreciate every nuance of its aromatic profile.
Storage and aging: how to store Barolo Riserva DOCG 'Perno' 2017 - Elio Sandri
The Barolo Riserva DOCG 'Perno' 2017 - Elio Sandri is a long-aging wine, capable of evolving for decades. To preserve its qualities, the wine should be stored in a cool, dark place with a constant temperature between 12 and 16°C, preferably horizontally to keep the cork consistently moist.
Over the years, it will develop complex aromas and nuances that only great Barolo Riserva wines can offer. Opened today, it already offers full and harmonious sensations, but its best soul will emerge with a few more years of rest in the cellar.
Elio Sandri
The history of the Elio Sandri winery The Elio Sandri winery is a symbol of tradition and innovation in the heart of the Langhe. With a history rooted in respect for ancient winemaking techniques, this winery has managed to blend family heritage with modern approaches, drawing a continuous line w...
How to best open and serve Barolo Riserva DOCG 'Perno' 2017 - Elio Sandri
1. Bottle Positioning
Before opening Barolo Riserva DOCG 'Perno' 2017 - Elio Sandri, position the bottle upright for at least 24 hours. This allows the natural sediments, typical of aged wines like Barolo, to settle at the bottom, preventing them from mixing with the wine during service.
2. Ideal Serving Temperature
Temperature will profoundly influence the tasting experience. Serve Barolo Riserva DOCG 'Perno' 2017 - Elio Sandri between 18°C and 20°C, slightly cooler than room temperature. If the wine is stored in a cellar, remove it about an hour before tasting to reach the optimal thermal level.
3. Opening the Bottle
Use a lever or thin screw corkscrew to avoid damaging the cork, which may have stiffened slightly over time. Proceed slowly:
- Remove the capsule and clean the bottle neck with a dry cloth.
- Insert the corkscrew worm into the center of the cork and turn gently.
- Extract the cork with a gradual motion to avoid excessive vibrations.
4. Inspection and First Taste
After opening, gently smell the cork: it should emit clean aromas consistent with an aged wine. Pour a small amount of Barolo Riserva DOCG 'Perno' 2017 - Elio Sandri into a glass and taste to check for any defects. The aromas should be complex, with notes of ripe fruit, spices, and undergrowth.
5. Decanting and Oxygenation
To best enhance the wine's character, decanting is recommended. Proceed as follows:
- Slowly pour the contents into the decanter, avoiding disturbing the sediments.
- Allow the wine to oxygenate for at least 60–90 minutes before serving, allowing the aromas and tannins to evolve and harmonize.
A mature Barolo like Barolo Riserva DOCG 'Perno' 2017 - Elio Sandri particularly benefits from this phase, which reveals its finesse and aromatic depth.
6. Serving
Use large tulip-shaped glasses, specific for structured red wines. Fill them only one-third full, leaving space for natural oxygenation in the glass. During tasting, observe the garnet color and appreciate the complex bouquet that progressively emerges.
7. Storage after Opening
If you don't consume the entire bottle of Barolo Riserva DOCG 'Perno' 2017 - Elio Sandri immediately, re-seal it with an airtight stopper and store it in the refrigerator. The wine will maintain its qualities for 2–3 days. Before the next tasting, bring it back to the recommended serving temperature to once again enjoy its elegance and complexity.