Le Coste Barolo (1996)

About this wine

This 1996 Barolo from Ferdinando Principiano offers a mature bouquet featuring truffle, rose, iron, and balsamic notes. On the palate, it presents a harmonious balance of dark fruit, earth, and iron flavors, supported by smooth tannins and lively acidity. The finish is notably long, leaving a lasting impression. The 1996 vintage is celebrated for its classic structure and aging potential, making this wine a fine example of traditional Barolo craftsmanship.

About the grape

Nebbiolo, the sole grape in the 1996 Principano Ferdinando Le Coste Barolo, is renowned for its late ripening and thrives in the Barolo region's unique climate and calcareous marl soils. Historically, Nebbiolo was first documented in the 13th century and has been cultivated in Piedmont for centuries. Its name is believed to derive from 'nebbia,' the Italian word for fog, referencing the misty conditions during its late October harvest. The grape's high tannin and acidity levels contribute to the wine's notable aging potential, often requiring years to develop its full complexity.

Quick facts

• 🍷 The 1996 vintage in Barolo is considered exceptional, producing wines with remarkable structure and longevity.
• 🍇 Barolo wines, including the 1996 Le Coste Barolo, are made exclusively from the Nebbiolo grape, known for its high tannins and acidity, contributing to their aging potential.
• 🌫️ The name 'Nebbiolo' is derived from the Italian word 'nebbia,' meaning 'fog,' referencing the foggy conditions during harvest in the Piedmont region.
• 🌹 Barolo wines are often described as having aromas of tar and roses, a signature characteristic of the Nebbiolo grape.
• 🏞️ The Le Coste vineyard is one of the esteemed crus in Barolo, contributing to the wine's complexity and depth.

Palate profile

Producer

Principiano Ferdinando is a family-owned winery located in Monforte d'Alba, Piedmont, Italy. Founded in the 1950s by Americo Principiano, the estate transitioned to his son, Ferdinando, in 1993. After apprenticeships with renowned producers Giacomo Conterno and Roberto Voerzio, Ferdinando initially embraced modern winemaking trends but shifted in 2003 to organic and biodynamic practices, emphasizing natural fermentation and minimal intervention. The estate spans approximately 20 hectares, including notable vineyards like Boscareto and Ravera di Monforte, and is dedicated to preserving biodiversity by maintaining surrounding forests and creating habitats for wildlife.