Barolo

Pronounced Bah-ROH-lo. A regional red wine from the town of Barolo, in the Piedmont region of Italy. Barolo regional wine is referred to as the "King of Italian Wines". Characteristics: Wines from the Barolo region are Nebbiolo grape varietal based, producing full-bodied, complex, deep red wines. Ageing complete, Barolo wines are characterized as dense, rich, full-bodied, complex, and earthy with flavors of truffles, violets, fruit, licorice, and at times oaky with high levels of tannin. Barolo wines that are consumed young are heavy and command an acquired taste. Ageing: Can be drunk young. Recommended aging of 3-5 years, up to 10 years to reach its peak. Standard: 2 years in barrel, 1 year in bottle. Riserva: 3 years in barrel, 1 year in bottle. Serving temperature: Serve at a temperature of 64.4º-68ºF. Food pairings: Beef, beef Wellington, lamb, pork, wild game, and hard cheeses.

Barbaresco, or a Cabernet