All about Barolo for beginners: what you need to know and how to start your discovery journey

Alles over Barolo voor beginners: wat moet je weten en hoe begin je je ontdekkingstocht?

Barolo is often called the "king of Italian wines" . This powerful red wine from Piedmont is loved by wine lovers all over the world. But what if you are not yet familiar with Barolo? Don't worry - in this article we will take you step by step into the world of Barolo. What makes Barolo so special, where do you start tasting, and what should you pay attention to when making your first purchase?


What is Barolo?

Barolo is a red wine from the Piedmont region of northwestern Italy. It is made exclusively from the Nebbiolo grape , a late-ripening grape known for its high acidity and firm tannins. According to the rules of the DOCG (Denominazione di Origine Controllata e Garantita) classification, Barolo must be aged for a minimum of 38 months , of which at least 18 months must be in wooden barrels.


Why is Barolo so special?

Barolo is unique for several reasons:

  • Long storage potential: A good Barolo can last for decades and develops beautifully in the bottle.

  • Complexity: Aromas of roses, tar, truffle, leather, spices and ripe red fruit make Barolo a wine that continues to surprise.

  • Terroir: Each hill in Barolo has its own character. There are over 170 official Crus (vineyards) each with its own flavour profile.


The best way to get to know Barolo

For beginners, Barolo can seem overwhelming. It’s powerful, intense and not always accessible at first sip. Here are some tips to get your discovery started:

1. Start with an approachable Barolo

Choose a slightly younger Barolo (say between 6 and 10 years old) from a softer commune such as La Morra or Barolo . These Barolos are often a bit more elegant and approachable than those from, say, Serralunga d'Alba , which is known for its powerful, structured wines.

2. Serve properly

Serve Barolo at a temperature between 16°C and 18°C ​​and allow it to breathe – ideally decant 2-3 hours beforehand. Use large glasses to allow the aromas to develop.

3. Combine with good food

Barolo is best paired with hearty dishes such as game, truffle pasta, mushroom risotto or mature cheeses. The wine and the food enhance each other in a magical way.


What should you pay attention to when buying Barolo?

If you want to buy Barolo, pay attention to the following points:

  • Producer: Choose reliable and specialized wineries. On Brunolo.nl you will find a carefully selected range of top domains.

  • Vintage: The vintage makes a big difference. In general, 2010, 2013, 2016, 2019 and 2021 are excellent years.

  • Price: Expect to pay around €30 for an entry-level Barolo. For top crus and older vintages, you’ll pay more, but you’ll get something unique.


How to start your own Barolo collection?

Start with a few bottles from different villages or vintages. For example, compare a Barolo from Monforte d'Alba with one from La Morra . That way you can taste the influence of the terroir yourself. Also consider putting a few bottles aside and opening one each year - that way you can follow the evolution of the wine over the years.


Finally, get guidance

Discovering Barolo is an adventure, but you don't have to do it alone. At Brunolo.nl we are happy to help you with personal advice, clear descriptions of each wine, and a carefully chosen selection of well-known Crus and top vintages. Here you will find our carefully selected best price - quality Barolos


Tasting Barolo is not a sprint, but a journey. A journey full of scents, flavours and stories from the heart of Piemonte. Start small, taste consciously and let curiosity guide you. Before you know it, you will fall in love with this royal wine.


Discover our full range of Barolos for beginners and advanced users at Brunolo.nl