Barolo (1973)

About this wine

This 1973 Barolo from Giacomo Borgogno & Figli presents a deep ruby color with garnet highlights, indicative of its age. On the nose, it offers a complex bouquet of dried red fruits, leather, and subtle spice notes. The palate reveals a harmonious balance between its still-present tannins and a refreshing acidity, leading to a long, persistent finish. This wine exemplifies the aging potential of Nebbiolo, a grape known for producing some of Italy's most esteemed wines. Giacomo Borgogno & Figli, established in 1761, is one of the oldest wineries in Piedmont, renowned for its traditional winemaking methods and commitment to producing age-worthy Barolos.

About the grape

Nebbiolo, the sole grape in the 1973 Giacomo Borgogno & Figli Barolo, is renowned for its late ripening, often harvested in late October when the Piedmont region is enveloped in fog, which is reflected in its name derived from 'nebbia,' meaning 'fog' in Italian. This grape has been cultivated in Piedmont since at least the 13th century, with early records from 1268 mentioning 'nibiol' near Turin. Nebbiolo's high tannin and acidity levels contribute to its exceptional aging potential, allowing wines like Barolo to develop complex flavors over decades. The 1973 vintage, produced by Giacomo Borgogno & Figli, exemplifies traditional Barolo winemaking, emphasizing the grape's capacity for long-term maturation.

Quick facts

• 🏰 Giacomo Borgogno & Figli, established in 1761, is one of the oldest wineries in Piedmont, Italy.
• 🇮🇹 In 1861, their Barolo was chosen to celebrate the unification of Italy.
• 🍇 The 1973 vintage of their Barolo is made exclusively from Nebbiolo grapes, known for their high tannins and acidity, contributing to the wine's longevity.
• 🌹 Barolo wines, including the 1973 vintage, are renowned for their complex aromas, often described as having notes of tar and roses.
• 🪵 The 1973 Barolo from Giacomo Borgogno & Figli was aged in large Slavonian oak casks, a traditional method that imparts subtle oak flavors and allows the wine to develop complexity over time.

Palate profile

Producer

Giacomo Borgogno & Figli, established in 1761 by Bartolomeo Borgogno, is one of the oldest wineries in Piedmont, Italy. Notably, their Barolo was served at the 1861 celebration of Italy's unification and during Tsar Nicholas II's 1908 visit. In 1920, Cesare Borgogno began exporting wines internationally and initiated the practice of aging Barolo Riserva for 20 years before release. The Farinetti family acquired the winery in 2008, maintaining its traditional methods and achieving organic certification in 2019.