- Last updated on June 30, 2023
Our Best Barolo Selection
- Best Overall: Cordero di Montezemolo Barolo Monfalletto 2017
- Best Value: Silvio Grasso Barolo 2018
- Best under $40: Cavalier Bartolomeo Altenasso Barolo 2017
- Best under $40 runner-up: Mauro Molino Barolo 2016
- Best under $50: Damilano Barolo Lecinquevigne 2015
- Best under $50 runner-up: G.D. Vajra Albe Barolo
- Best under $60: Massolino Barolo 2018
- Best under $60 runner-up: Fontanafredda Serralunga d'Alba Barolo 2017
- Best under $70: M. Marengo Brunate Barolo 2018
- Best under $70 runner-up: Schiavenza Barolo Cerretta 2017
- Best under $100: Pio Cesare Barolo 2016
- Best Dessert: Pio Cesare Barolo Chinato
- Best Dessert runner-up: Cappellano Barolo Chinato
- Best Luxury: Mascarello Giuseppe e Figlio Barolo Monprivato 2018
- Best Luxury (runner-up): Gaja Dagromis Barolo 2017
15 Best Barolo Reviewed
Find below the reviews for our wine selection of the 15 Best Barolo so that you have all the info you need to pick what’s best for you.
Vivino’s tips: Great value for money. Similar wines usually cost 2 times as much.
Region: Italy, Piemonte
Tasting notes: Raspberry, Cherry, Cocoa, Tobacco, Spice.
Cordero di Montezemolo Barolo Monfalletto is a true gem of the Barolo region, showcasing the finest aspects of Italian winemaking.
From its dark fruit, spice, and leather aromas to its full-bodied texture and firm tannins, this wine is a masterpiece of balance and elegance.
The top four things that make this wine stands out vs its peers are:
- Winemaking Tecnique: the Montezemolo family’s dedication to tradition and innovation is evident in every bottle.
Their expertise in winemaking has been passed down through generations, resulting in a wine that truly embodies the essence of the region.
- Brings Barolo to next level, this wine’s complexity and depth make it an excellent choice for those looking to explore the world of Italian wines.
Its rich flavors and elegant structure make it a wine to savor and enjoy on special occasions, or simply indulge in a moment of relaxation.
- You can drink it now or let it age:Â the wine’s ability to be cellared for several years showcases its full potential.
With each passing year, the wine evolves and matures, creating an even more exceptional drinking experience.
- Priced competitively against its peers, so you’ll save several $10s and still get an outstanding wine.
Overall, Cordero di Montezemolo Barolo Monfalletto is a wine that embodies the essence of the Barolo region and is a true reflection of the Montezemolo family’s passion for winemaking.
Whether you’re a seasoned wine enthusiast or just starting your journey, this wine is one that you won’t want to miss.
Read our full review here.
Region: Italy, Piemonte
Tasting notes: Strawberry, Cherry, Plum, Tobacco, Oak, Licorice.
Silvio Grasso Barolo is an exceptional wine that truly represents the winemaking expertise of the Piedmont Barolo region.
The wine’s complex aromas and flavors, along with its smooth texture and well-integrated tannins, make it a wine to be savored and appreciated.
The three things that make this wine the best value wine are:
- It’s complex, balanced and elegant, which means that you get various layers of flavors and aromas that are not overpowering.
- Ageing: It aged for 2 years in oak barrels and 1 year in bottle, resulting in a complex and elegant wine and can age for another 10+ years.
- It offers great value for your money, it’s one of the best Barbaresco in this price range and it’s $30+ cheaper than Cordero di Montezemolo Barolo 2017.
Its versatility in food pairings also makes it an excellent choice for a variety of occasions, whether enjoyed with a hearty meal or on its own.
Silvio Grasso Barolo is a must-try for any wine enthusiast and is a testament to the quality of Italian winemaking.
Read our full review here.
Region: Italy, Piemonte
Tasting notes: Cherry, Plum, Blackberry, Oak, Licorice.
Cavalier Bartolomeo Barolo Altenasso is an exceptional wine that showcases the best of Piedmont’s winemaking traditions in the Barolo area.
The wine’s complex aromas and flavors, as well as its full-bodied texture and well-structured tannins, make it a wine to be savored and enjoyed.
Its versatility in food pairings also makes it an excellent choice for a variety of occasions, whether enjoyed with a hearty meal or on its own.
The three things that make this wine the best budget are:
- It’s refined and complex, which means you’ll get many layers of aromas and flavors combined together in fine way.
- It ages well up to 10-20 years so that you can store it and enjoy over time.
- It cost ~$40 (
) yes, it’s unbelievable for the quality you get.
) yes, it’s unbelievable for the quality you get.Cavalier Bartolomeo Barolo Altenasso is a must-try for any wine enthusiast and is a testament to the quality of Italian winemaking.
Read our full review here.
Vivino’s tips: Great value for money. Similar wines usually cost 2 times as much. | 93+ points by Wine Advocate.
Region: Italy, Piemonte
Tasting notes: Cherry, Strawberry, Plum, Blackberry, Oak, Tobacco, Licorice, Rose.
Mauro Molino Barolo is an exceptional wine that truly showcases the winemaking expertise of the Barolo region.
The wine’s complex aromas and flavors, as well as its smooth texture and well-integrated tannins, make it a wine to be savored and appreciated.
Its versatility in food pairings also makes it an excellent choice for a variety of occasions, whether enjoyed with a hearty meal or on its own.
Mauro Molino Barolo is a must-try for any wine enthusiast and is a testament to the quality of Italian winemaking.
Read our full review here.
Vivino’s tips: Good value for money. Similar wines usually cost 58% more. | Featured in Top 25 Italian Barolo wines in the USA right now.
Region: Italy, Piemonte
Tasting notes: Cherry, Raspberry, Plum, Leather, Earthy, Violet.
Damilano Barolo Lecinquevigne is an exceptional wine that truly showcases the winemaking expertise of the Barolo region.
The wine’s complex aromas and flavors, as well as its smooth texture and well-integrated tannins, make it a wine to be savored and appreciated.
Its versatility in food pairings also makes it an excellent choice for a variety of occasions, whether enjoyed with a hearty meal or on its own.
Damilano Barolo Lecinquevigne is a must-try for any wine enthusiast and is a testament to the quality of Italian winemaking.
Read our full review here.
Vivino’s tips: 93 points by Robert Parker
Region: Italy, Piemonte
Tasting notes: Cherry, Raspberry, Plum, Licorice, Earthy.
G.D. Vajra Albe Barolo is a truly remarkable wine that represents the quality of Piedmont winemaking.
The wine’s complex aromas and flavors, as well as its smooth texture and well-integrated tannins, make it a wine to be savored and appreciated.
Its versatility in food pairings also makes it an excellent choice for a variety of occasions, whether enjoyed with a hearty meal or on its own.
G.D. Vajra Albe Barolo is a must-try for any wine enthusiast and is a testament to the quality of Italian winemaking.
Read our full review here.
Vivino’s tips: Featured in Top 25 Italian Barolo wines in New York right now (2018 Vintage)
Vivino’s tips: Featured in Top 25 Italian Barolo wines in New York right now (2018 Vintage)
Region: Italy, Piemonte
Tasting notes: Ripe Cherry, Strawberry, Rhubarb, Oak, Leather, Spice.
Massolino Barolo is a premium wine that truly showcases the winemaking expertise of the Barolo region.
The wine’s complex aromas and flavors, as well as its smooth texture and well-integrated tannins, make it a wine to be savored and appreciated.
Its versatility in food pairings also makes it an excellent choice for a variety of occasions, whether enjoyed with a hearty meal or on its own.
Massolino Barolo is a must-try for any wine enthusiast and is a testament to the quality of Italian winemaking.
Read our full review here.
Vivino’s tips: Featured in Top 25 Italian Barolo wines in New York right now (2018 Vintage)
Region: Italy, Piemonte
Tasting notes: Ripe Cherry, Strawberry, Rhubarb, Oak, Leather, Spice, Rose.
Fontanafredda Barolo Serralunga d’Alba is an exceptional wine that truly showcases the winemaking expertise of the Barolo region.
The wine’s complex aromas and flavors, as well as its smooth texture and well-integrated tannins, make it a wine to be savored and appreciated.
Its versatility in food pairings also makes it an excellent choice for a variety of occasions, whether enjoyed with a hearty meal or on its own.
Fontanafredda Barolo Serralunga d’Alba is a must-try for any wine enthusiast and is a testament to the quality of Italian winemaking.
Read our full review here.
Vivino’s tips: 95 points by Robert Parker (2018 Vintage)
Region: Italy, Piemonte
Tasting notes: Ripe Cherry, Plum, Rhubarb, Oak, Leather, Spice, Rose.
M. Marengo Brunate Barolo is a remarkable wine that truly showcases the winemaking expertise of the Barolo region.
The wine’s complex aromas and flavors, as well as its smooth texture and well-integrated tannins, make it a wine to be savored and appreciated.
Its versatility in food pairings also makes it an excellent choice for a variety of occasions, whether enjoyed with a meal or on its own.
M. Marengo Brunate Barolo is a must-try for any wine enthusiast and is a testament to the quality of Italian winemaking.
Read our full review here.
Vivino’s tips: 96 points by James Suckling (2017 Vintage)
Region: Italy, Piemonte
Tasting notes: Ripe Cherry, Raspberry, Plum, Oak, Leather, Spice, Rose petals.
Schiavenza Barolo Cerretta is an exceptional wine that truly showcases the winemaking expertise of the Barolo region.
The wine’s complex aromas and flavors, as well as its smooth texture and well-integrated tannins, make it a wine to be savored and appreciated.
Its versatility in food pairings also makes it an excellent choice for a variety of occasions, whether enjoyed with a hearty meal or on its own.
Schiavenza Barolo Cerretta is a must-try for any wine enthusiast and is a testament to the quality of Italian winemaking.
Read our full review here.
Vivino’s tips: Featured in Top 25 Italian Barolo wines in the USA right now.
Region: Italy, Piemonte
Tasting notes: Red Fruit, Ripe Plum, Leather, Oak, Tobacco, Violet.
Pio Cesare Barolo is an exceptional wine that truly represents the quality of Piedmont winemaking.
The wine’s complex aromas and flavors, as well as its smooth texture and well-integrated tannins, make it a wine to be savored and appreciated.
Its versatility in food pairings also makes it an excellent choice for a variety of occasions, whether enjoyed with a hearty meal or on its own.
Pio Cesare Barolo is a must-try for any wine enthusiast and is a testament to the quality of Italian winemaking.
Read our full review here.
Vivino’s tips: 94 points by Robert Parker.
Region: Italy, Piemonte
Tasting notes: Rhubarb, Ginger, Cardamom, Cinnamon, Bitter Orange.
Pio Cesare Barolo Chinato is a unique and flavorful wine-based digestif that showcases the rich flavors and aromas of the Barolo region in Piedmont, Italy.
The wine’s complex bouquet of aromas and rich, velvety texture make it an excellent choice for after-dinner sipping, and its versatility in food pairings makes it an excellent choice for a variety of occasions.
Pio Cesare Barolo Chinato is a must-try for any wine enthusiast and is a testament to the quality of Italian winemaking.
Read our full review here.
Region: Italy, Piemonte
Tasting notes: Rhubarb, Ginger, Cardamom, Cocoa, Aromatic Spices.
Cappellano Barolo Chinato is a unique and complex wine that combines the richness of Barolo with the aromatic and flavorful herbs and spices of the chinato infusion.
This traditional Italian digestif is a testament to the expertise of the Cappellano family in winemaking and is a must-try for anyone interested in Italian wine and spirits.
Its rich and complex flavors, along with its smooth texture and long finish, make it a perfect after-dinner treat or a special sipper on a cold winter evening.
Read our full review here.
Vivino’s tips: Among top 1% of all wines in the world
Region: Italy, Piemonte
Tasting notes: Cherry, Strawberry, Roses, Leather, Licorice, Oak, Tobacco.
Mascarello Giuseppe e Figlio Barolo Monprivato 2018 is an exceptional wine that truly represents the quality of Piedmont winemaking.
The wine’s complex aromas and flavors, as well as its smooth texture and well-integrated tannins, make it a wine to be savored and appreciated.
Its versatility in food pairings also makes it an excellent choice for a variety of occasions, whether enjoyed with a hearty meal or on its own.
Mascarello Giuseppe e Figlio Barolo Monprivato 2018 is a must-try for any wine enthusiast and is a testament to the quality of Italian winemaking.
Read our full review here.
Vivino’s tips: Ranks #1 in Top 25 Italian Barolo wines in New York right now (2018 Vintage)
Region: Italy, Piemonte
Tasting notes: Cherry, Plum, Roses, Leather, Oak.
Gaja Dagromis Barolo 2018 is an exceptional wine that truly represents the quality of Piedmont winemaking.
The wine’s complex aromas and flavors, as well as its smooth texture and well-integrated tannins, make it a wine to be savored and appreciated.
Its versatility in food pairings also makes it an excellent choice for a variety of occasions, whether enjoyed with a hearty meal or on its own.
Gaja Dagromis Barolo is a must-try for any wine enthusiast and is a testament to the quality of Italian winemaking.
Read our full review here.
Buying Guide to Barolo
It’s not just about which Barolo you should buy.
There are other important aspects like how to serve it, food pairings, and much more.
The below buying guide will give you a detailed overview of all these topics.
Barolo Overview
Here you find an overview of where Barolo is most commonly planted.
Grape
Nebbiolo
ABV
13.5%–15%
Main Regions
Italy: Piemonte
Other Regions
-
Grape
Nebbiolo
ABV
13.5%–15%
Main Regions
Italy: Piemonte
Other Regions
-
Barolo Taste Profile
These are some of the most common aromas and flavors of Barolo.
Color
Ruby
Nose
Cherry
Raspberry
Roses
Tar
Licorice
Palate
Red Fruit, Licorice
Dry
High Acidity
High Tannins
Full Body
Color
Ruby
Nose
Cherry
Raspberry
Roses
Tar
Licorice
Palate
Red Fruit, Licorice
Dry
High Acidity
High Tannins
Full Body
Barolo Food Pairing
These are some food pairing suggestions for Barolo.
Appetizer
Porcini Mushroom,
Truffle Risotto/Tajarin,
Vitello Tonnato,
Grilled Radicchio,
Butternut Squash
Meat
Battuta di Fassona (Meat Tartare),
Braised Duck,
Roast Turkey,
Ribeye Steak
Fish
-
Cheese
Semi Hard (Parmigiano, Pecorino)
Blue Cheese (Gorgonzola)
Appetizer
Porcini Mushroom,
Truffle Risotto/Tajarin,
Vitello Tonnato,
Grilled Radicchio,
Butternut Squash
Meat
Battuta di Fassona (Meat Tartare),
Braised Duck,
Roast Turkey,
Ribeye Steak
Fish
-
Cheese
Semi Hard (Parmigiano, Pecorino)
Blue Cheese (Gorgonzola)
Serve and Store Barolo
Here you find some useful tips on how to serve and store Barolo.
Decant
1 hrs
Glass
Aroma Collector
Serve at
59 - 68 °F
15 - 20 °C
Store for
Up to 10 years
Up to 30+ years finest bottles only
Decant
1 hrs
Glass
Aroma Collector
Serve at
59 - 68 °F
15 - 20 °C
Store for
Up to 10 years
Up to 30+ years finest bottles only
Barolo Styles
You’ll find primarily three Barolo styles: DOCG, Riserva and Barolo Chinato.
The DOCG appellation, see below in FAQ section for more details, requires for Barolo 3 years of ageing of which 18 months in oak before release.
Barolo Riserva must age for at least 5 years, of which 18 months in oak before release.
Barolo Chinato is a dessert wine, very aromatic and smooth, that is generally used as digestive.
It’s made with Barolo DOCG and a series of spices amongst which you find cinnamon, coriander, cinchona tree and vanilla.
Barolo wine are very tannic, as such you should wait at least 7 to 10 years after vintage before drink it.Â
Our Verdict
What to do next?
Read our wine tasting guide to enhance your tasting experience and taste like the pro!
Alternatively, why don’t you check out our guides on Merlot, Pinot Noir, Cabernet Sauvignon vs Merlot, or the other red wines?
FAQ
Here are some of the most frequently asked questions about Barolo.
What does Barolo mean?
Barolo wine is named after the Falletti family, Marquesses of Barolo, who started the producing Barolo wine at the beginning of the 1800.
What is Barolo history?
The Borolo wine was initially produced at the beginning of the 1800 by the noble Falletti family, Marquesses of Barolo.
In the mid 1800, Giulia Falletti di Barolo perfected the winemaking process and successfully promote the wine across Europe.
Barolo become the favorite wine of the ruling House of Savoy from where the description “the wine of kings, the king of wines” comes from.
From the 60s of the 1900, the wine gained again popularity and in the 80s it got the DOCG.
During the same period, some Barolo producers, led by Paolo Cordero di Montezemolo, Renato Ratti and others, started a more modern production.
This improved the Barolo quality and ability to age and made it more suitable for the international market as well.
Where does Nebbiolo grow best?
When is the perfect time to drink Barolo?
Barolo is a full body and complex wine, as such it is a great choice for truffle, rich fat dishes and red meats dinner.
Is Barolo sweet?
Barolo is not sweet. It is a dry wine which means it contains less than 15 g/L, or sugar per liter.
Learn more about wine sweetness level here.
What does the acronym DOC and DOCG mean?
DOC stands for Denominazione di Origine Controllata. It’s one of the highest classification in Italy.
DOCG stands for Denominazione di Origine Controllata e Garantita. It’s the highest classification in Italy.
Every DOCG wine is tested before bottling by a committee of licensed judges which guarantee the quality of the wine.
To obtain DOC winemakers need to follow rigorous protocols for harvesting, cultivation, and production.Â
Other common classifications are DO and IGT.[2]
What’s Barolo's typical price range?
Barolo is rarely an affordable wine but you can find good entry-level bottle around $40.
Great bottles will generally priced around $50-$100 price range.
For those of you who are after the luxury segment be prepared to spend several $100s.
