What kind of wine is Flavored Barolo Chinato Wine - Schiavenza (0.5l)

Flavored Barolo Chinato Wine - Schiavenza (0.5l) is a unique liqueur wine, born from the union of prestigious Barolo with an infusion of aromatic herbs and spices, notably Calissaia cinchona bark. It is a fortified wine – meaning it's enriched with alcohol during processing – achieving a higher alcohol content than traditional still wines, generally around 16-17% vol. Its origin lies in the Piedmontese tradition of the late nineteenth century, when it was created as a digestive elixir with a sophisticated and enveloping taste.

Vintage Details

The Barolo Chinato Schiavenza is made from Nebbiolo grapes sourced from selected crus in the heart of the Langhe. Harvesting is done manually, favoring balanced vintages where the grapes achieve optimal phenolic ripeness, which means the right balance of sugars, acidity, and tannins. The result is an aromatic wine that maintains the structure and strength of the original Barolo, softened by the presence of the blend of spices and medicinal herbs.

Winemaking and Aging

After the winemaking of the base Barolo, the wine is flavored with an infusion of natural herbs, roots, and spices. Among the main ingredients, Calissaia cinchona stands out, giving the wine its unmistakable bitter note. Cinnamon, cloves, and gentian follow, enriching its balsamic profile. The wine is then fortified and left to rest in small oak barrels for an aging period that gives it softness and harmony, balancing sweetness, alcoholic warmth, and aromatic complexity.

Tasting Notes

Color

Visually, Flavored Barolo Chinato Wine - Schiavenza (0.5l) presents an intense garnet red with amber reflections, a sign of its aging and aromatic enrichment.

Nose

The aroma is broad and enveloping: notes of medicinal herbs, sweet spices, cinchona, and citrus zest are perceived. Scents of tobacco and cocoa also emerge, linked to the noble character of the starting Barolo, creating a complex and persistent bouquet.

Palate

On the palate, it is rich, velvety, and harmonious. The initial sweetness gives way to a pleasant bitter and spicy aftertaste, typical of the best Chinati. Its full body and long finish make it ideal as a meditation wine or to accompany convivial moments.

What to pair with Flavored Barolo Chinato Wine - Schiavenza (0.5l)

This aromatic wine pairs perfectly with desserts and chocolate but also surprises with more creative combinations. Here are some ideas:

• Dark chocolate and orange pralines
• Cocoa cakes or spiced desserts like gingerbread and strudel
• Aged and slightly spicy cheeses, which balance its sweetness
• Also try it as a meditation wine, served at room temperature

Storage and Aging (how to store Flavored Barolo Chinato Wine - Schiavenza (0.5l))

Thanks to its structure and high alcohol content, Barolo Chinato Schiavenza has a longer lifespan than unfortified wines. It can be stored for a long time, even for several years, maintaining its fragrance and aromatic complexity intact. For optimal storage:

• Keep the bottle upright to reduce contact with the cork.
• Maintain a constant temperature, between 12 and 18°C, away from light and heat sources.
• Once opened, the bottle can be stored in the refrigerator for a few weeks, well-sealed, without significant loss of aromas.

Over time, this Flavored Barolo Chinato Wine - Schiavenza (0.5l) evolves further, offering softer and richer nuances. A small treasure to be savored slowly, combining the tradition of the Langhe with the refinement of Italian flavored wines.