2005 Barolo DOCG Ravera

A majestic Barolo from one of the very best producers.

Many consider “Ravera” a great Barolo Cru, although its production is difficult because of the altitude and type of soil. This is a Barolo with a very strong character, which does not lose its origins even through its partial ageing in small casks. The Ravera Cru terroir is expressed in the wine with the finesse of the bouquet, a full-flavoured palate and great complexity. The slightly prolonged fermentation intends to enhance these attributes, which show their best after ageing.

Tasting Notes
An intense garnet red, lively and brilliant with a slight orange rim. Its nose appears candid, elegant and strong, evoking rose, mint and tobacco that in time turn to fragrances of spices, coffee, liquorice and truffle with a leather and mineral finish. In the mouth it appears full, rounded, strong bodied and well balanced. It has a forward flavour of plum preserve and dried blackberry with a chocolate finish giving a harmonious and pleasant aromatic persistence. It is extremely good in its first years, becoming austere with classic elegance and boldness as time goes on.

Matching
Great with braised meats, game in wine, roasts and matured cheese. Also goes well with sheep's cheese and Parmesan cheese.

Winemaking Notes
Nebbiolo grape sub-varieties Lampia and Michet from south-facing vineyards at an altitude of 380 metres above sea level. Density 4,000 vines per hectare. Fermentation occurs in temperature-controlled stainless steel vats. 35 days maceration period. Ageing 12 months in Allier barrique (40% new) and 12 months in Slavonian oak 25 hectolitre barrels, followed by 6 months in bottle prior to release. 17,000 bottles made.