Barolo Riserva (1952)

About this wine

This 1952 Barolo Riserva from Giacomo Borgogno & Figli presents a ruby red color with garnet highlights, a characteristic of well-aged Nebbiolo wines. On the nose, it offers aromas of red ripe fruits and spices, reflecting the wine's maturity. The palate is well-structured, with a good body and incisive sip, supported by pleasant acidity that imparts freshness. The tannins are persistent, indicating the wine's longevity. This Barolo Riserva is a testament to the aging potential of Nebbiolo, offering a complex and rewarding tasting experience.

About the grape

Nebbiolo is a grape variety native to Italy's Piedmont region, first documented in the 13th century. Its name likely derives from 'nebbia,' the Italian word for 'fog,' referencing the mist that envelops vineyards during its late October harvest. Nebbiolo is known for its high tannins and acidity, requiring careful cultivation and extended aging to develop its full character. In the 19th century, winemakers in Barolo began producing dry wines exclusively from Nebbiolo, elevating the grape's status and leading to Barolo's reputation as the 'king of wines.'

Quick facts

• 🍇 The 1952 Barolo Riserva from Giacomo Borgogno & Figli is crafted exclusively from Nebbiolo grapes, renowned for producing wines with remarkable aging potential.
• 🪵 This vintage was aged for four years in large Slavonian oak casks, a traditional method that imparts subtle oak flavors while allowing the wine to develop complexity.
• 🌟 The 1952 vintage is considered to be of good quality, with some excellent Barolo wines produced that year.
• ⏳ Borgogno's Barolo Riserva wines are known for their longevity, with bottles from the 1950s still offering enjoyable tasting experiences today.
• 💰 The 1952 Barolo Riserva has an average price of approximately $265 per 750ml bottle, reflecting its rarity and desirability among collectors.

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.