Packaged in a pretty bottle with a "retro" aesthetic, the Fontanafredda 2016 Barolo ("Silver Label") shows a classic rendition with mild fruit intensity. There isn't much definition to this blend of Nebbiolo grapes, and the bouquet is a bit muddled and general (or lacking in specifics), although you do get the basic Nebbiolo pillars of wild berry fruit, rose, licorice and tar—in no particular order. A nice brasato al Barolo, or pot roast, would pair nicely. I feel like we could expect more here. Some 25,000 six-bottle cases were produced.

Fading cherry, leather and antique furniture shop aromas hail this accessible red, with a lively structure that lends support. The finish is lined with dusty tannins. Drink now through 2029. 25,000 cases made, 3,750 cases imported.??–BS??Region: Italy / Piedmont / Barolo Select to Add