Wines Barolo Agricola Marianot - 2021

Viniou Reviews

Agricola Marianot’s Barolo DOC 2021 is an exemplary red wine embodying the essence of the Nebbiolo grape, a flagship varietal of Piedmont. This vintage, still very young, promises both the classic power and refined structure that have made Barolo world-famous. The 2021 season in Piedmont was marked by a balanced climate, offering warm days and cool nights that fostered exceptional ripeness while preserving aromatic freshness. Typical of Barolo, the wine undergoes extended fermentation and aging, often in large Slovenian oak barrels, encouraging deep complexity and developing the tannins Nebbiolo is renowned for.

Barolo hails from the heart of the Langhe region, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its complex patchwork of calcareous marl, clay, and sand soils. These unique geological conditions impart distinctive elegance and mineral tension to the wine. The climate, with its marked seasonal shifts and autumn mists, helps to prolong the grape’s maturation, yielding wines with profound aroma and striking longevity. Barolo’s reputation as “the king of wines and the wine of kings” dates back to the 19th century, closely tied to the Italian unification period and a heritage of noble estates.

This Barolo’s robust structure and bouquet—notes of rose petal, dried cherry, truffle, forest floor, and subtle tar—invite pairings with richly flavored dishes. Traditional Piedmontese cuisine is a natural fit: think braised veal shank (ossobuco), tajarin pasta with porcini mushrooms, or a creamy risotto al Barolo. Aged cheeses such as Castelmagno or Parmigiano Reggiano also make excellent companions, while the wine’s tannins can complement roasted game or beef.

For optimal enjoyment, decant the 2021 Barolo at least one hour before serving, as its youth can make it a bit tight initially. Serve at a temperature of 16-18°C to allow the aromas and tannins to fully express themselves. This wine will reward patience, promising greater complexity and harmony with a few additional years in the cellar.