Barolo (2017)

About this wine

The 2017 Sordo Barolo presents a garnet red color with orange nuances that become more evident as it ages. On the nose, it offers delicate, ethereal, and intense aromas of ripe red berries, rose petals, and citrus rind. The palate is warm, full-bodied, and complex, with flavors of cherry, plum, and subtle hints of leather and menthol. The tannins are fine and lightly chewy, providing a harmonious balance to the wine's structure. This Barolo is well-balanced and drinkable now if decanted for at least an hour, and it has the potential to age gracefully over the next decade.

About the grape

Nebbiolo, the sole grape in the 2017 Sordo Barolo, has deep roots in Italy's Piedmont region, with records dating back to the 13th century. Its name likely comes from 'nebbia,' the Italian word for fog, reflecting the misty conditions during its late October harvest. Historically, Nebbiolo was used to produce sweet wines until the mid-19th century, when winemakers like Camillo Benso, Count of Cavour, and French enologist Louis Oudart transformed it into the dry, robust style now associated with Barolo. This shift elevated Nebbiolo's status, leading to its moniker as the 'king of wines' and solidifying its role in crafting esteemed Barolo wines.

Quick facts

• 🍇 Sordo's Barolo 2017 is crafted exclusively from Nebbiolo grapes, renowned for their complex aromas and robust tannins.
• 🏆 The 2017 vintage of Sordo Barolo received a 92-point rating from James Suckling, highlighting its quality and appeal.
• 🪵 Sordo's Barolo 2017 is aged for 24 months in large Slavonian oak barrels, a traditional method that imparts subtle oak flavors while preserving the wine's authentic character.
• 🏰 The Sordo winery, established in 1912, is located in Castiglione Falletto, a prime area within the Barolo region, and is now managed by the third generation of the Sordo family.
• 👑 Barolo wines, including Sordo's 2017 vintage, are often referred to as 'the king of wines and the wine of kings' due to their esteemed status and historical association with Italian nobility.

Palate profile

Producer

Sordo Giovanni, established in 1912 by Giuseppe Sordo in Castiglione Falletto, Italy, is a family-run winery now managed by the third generation, Giorgio Sordo. The estate spans 53 hectares across multiple municipalities in the Barolo region, making it unique in producing eight distinct Barolo crus from vineyards in five different municipalities. Sordo's commitment to tradition is evident in their use of large Slavonian oak barrels for aging, ensuring the authentic expression of their terroir. In 2014, they expanded their facilities to include a panoramic tasting room, offering visitors breathtaking views of the Langhe hills.