Barolo DOCG 2013 Ceretto

This is a beautiful wine that showcases the classic characteristics of the harvest. The 2013 Barolo opens to sassy spice and cinnamon with dark fruit and balsam herb. This is a firmly structured wine with a firm tannic backbone that serves to support and frame the dark and exuberant fruit found at its inner core.

Ceretto farms a total of 130 hectares. The entire property is farmed organically, and 60 hectares are also biodynamic. Ceretto makes wines in both the Barbaresco and the Barolo appellations, and this puts them in a good position to judge the difficult 2014 season from both perspectives. They join in a chorus of voices telling me that 2014 was fine in Barbaresco but considerably more difficult in nearby Barolo. In fact, the Barolo single-vineyard expressions will not be produced in 2014.

Taut and gritty, with austere and dense tannins locking down the cherry, menthol and tobacco flavors. Offers a glimpse of sweet cherry, but only time will yield the hidden facets. Offers a long, licorice-tinged finish. Best from 2023 through 2040. 

The 2013 Barolo is a superb, entry-level wine from Ceretto. Plush, deep and inviting, the 2013 will drink well pretty much upon release. A beguiling mélange of spice, cedar, tobacco and dark stone fruit notes fleshes out effortlessly. The 2013 looks to be a relatively early maturing wine, but it will provide considerable pleasure before that is an issue.