Poderi Luigi Einaudi’s Barolo Monvigliero 2019 is a superb expression of Nebbiolo, the emblematic varietal of Piedmont. This single-vineyard cuvée hails from Monvigliero, a revered cru near the village of Verduno, celebrated for its fine, perfumed style of Barolo. The 2019 vintage is marked by remarkable balance: a cool spring followed by warm, even ripening conditions, yielding wines of bright energy, purity of fruit, and firm yet refined tannins. In the glass, expect a deep garnet color, with classic Nebbiolo aromas of rose petals, sour cherry, raspberry, anise, and subtle tar. The palate is layered, showing precision and elegance, marrying ripe red fruit with notes of wild herbs, dried flower, and a long, mineral finish. Traditional vinification, typically involving lengthy macerations and aging in large oak casks, underlines the wine’s complex structure and age-worthiness.
The Barolo DOCG is in the heart of the Langhe, within southern Piedmont. This region boasts rolling hills and a patchwork of vineyards set in marl and calcareous soils, ideal for Nebbiolo’s sensitive nature. The hills offer excellent drainage and varying exposures, with Monvigliero noted for its lighter, sandier soil, lending particularly delicate aromatics and silky textures to the wine. The Piedmont region is famous for its fog (the “nebbia” from which Nebbiolo gets its name), which blankets the vineyards in autumn, assisting a slow, gentle ripening of the grapes. Centuries of tradition, a cool continental climate, and the diverse terroirs of Barolo have made this zone one of Italy’s most prestigious.
Barolo’s structure and aromatic complexity pair beautifully with hearty regional dishes. Think of traditional Piemontese fare: tajarin al tartufo (egg pasta with truffles), brasato al Barolo (beef braised in Barolo), or roasted game birds with herbs. Mature cow’s milk cheeses like Castelmagno or toma are also excellent companions. For an international twist, try the wine with wild mushroom risotto, rosemary roast lamb, or duck breast with dried cherry sauce.
To enjoy this Barolo at its best, decant for at least two hours to allow its aromas to unfurl. Serve in large Burgundy-style glasses at 16-18°C. While approachable now with air, this 2019 Monvigliero has the pedigree to develop beautifully in the cellar for 10-20 years, rewarding patience with added nuance and grace.
