# Barolo Serralunga d'Alba Riserva (2018)

- **Producer:** Fontanafredda
- **Colour:** red
- **Type:** still
- **Grapes:** Nebbiolo
- **Region:** Piemonte, Italy
- **Style:** Classic
- **Alcohol:** 14.5%
- **Average price:** €85
- **Contains sulphites:** No
- **When to drink:** Later
- **Serving temperature:** 16–18 °C
- **Aromas & flavours:** liquorice, black cherry, red cherry, cedar, cloves, vanilla, dried fruit, leather, wet leaves, tobacco, earth

## About this wine

Fontanafredda Barolo Serralunga d'Alba Riserva 2018 is a 100% Nebbiolo wine from the Barolo DOCG in Piedmont, Italy, specifically from the Serralunga d'Alba sub-region. The winery, Fontanafredda, was established in 1858 by King Vittorio Emanuele II and Rosa Vercellana, carrying a significant historical legacy. The estate is committed to organic farming and a sustainable approach, aiming to enhance the land's biodiversity. This wine is a Riserva, indicating extended aging as per Barolo regulations, and originates from a Cru known for its robust and age-worthy character.

## Interesting facts

- Fontanafredda cultivates 120 hectares of organic vineyards.
- Barolo Riserva requires a minimum of 62 months aging.
- Serralunga d'Alba is one of the historic communes for distinctive Barolos.
- The estate was founded by Italian royalty.

## Food pairing

The wine's full body, high tannins, and firm structure are well-suited to rich, protein-heavy dishes. The tannins bind with proteins in the meat, softening the wine and cleansing the palate, while the wine's intensity complements the robust flavors of game, beef, and hearty stews.

## Wine making process

The production of Fontanafredda Barolo Serralunga d'Alba Riserva 2018 involves 100% Nebbiolo grapes cultivated in the Serralunga d'Alba region of Piedmont. Fermentation includes an extended maceration period to extract color and tannins. The wine then undergoes a rigorous aging process: 36 months in oak barrels, followed by 12 months in cement vats, and an additional 12 months of bottle aging before its release. This multi-stage aging is a key component of the Riserva designation and contributes to the wine's structure and complexity.