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Barolo and Brunello vintages to drink now

Patience is most certainly a virtue when it comes to pulling the cork on back vintages of prime Piedmont and Tuscan flagship reds quietly gathering dust in your cellar. But if you can’t wait any longer, Michaela Morris highlights the best vintages to open and enjoy right now.

When it comes to Italian wine, Barolo and Brunello di Montalcino are two of the most likely candidates for cellaring. Their respective grape varieties, Nebbiolo and Sangiovese, are undoubtedly the country’s noblest and, in their most prestigious denominations, there is no question of their pedigree for long and beneficial ageing.

In decades past, both typically took years to come round in the bottle, but modern-day production can result in more immediately accessible wines.

Some producers point to the warming climate and greater resulting ripeness. Evolution in winemaking also plays a part. Crucially though, Barolo and Brunello haven’t lost their ability to transform slowly over the years as they rest, especially in great vintages.


Scroll down to see tasting notes and scores for six top Barolo and Brunello wines to drink now



See Michaela Morris’ tasting notes and scores for top Barolo and Brunello vintages to drink now:


Related content:

Barolo vs Brunello vs Barbaresco: What’s the difference?

Barolo & Barbaresco: 10 high-flying vineyard sites

Brunello di Montalcino: The 10 must-know estates

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