Barolo

Barolo is one of Italy's great red wines, produced exclusively from the Nebbiolo grape in the hills of Piedmont. Known for its pale colour, firm tannins, high acidity and remarkable ability to age, Barolo can combine red cherry and rose with savoury notes of herbs, spice, leather, earth and tar as it develops.

At Spy, our Barolo selection focuses on distinctive wines from carefully chosen small producers, from more approachable expressions to structured, age-worthy bottles with real depth and character. Producer, vineyard site and ageing all play a major role in shaping the final style, making Barolo one of the most rewarding Italian wines to explore.

  • Bottle of Barolo Parussi from Sobrero Organic Winery Piedmont

    Sobrero Francesco Barolo Parussi

    Sobrero Francesco Barolo Parussi

    75cl | ABV: 14%

    £66.95
    £66.95

Barolo Buying Guide

Barolo is made entirely from Nebbiolo, a grape known for high acidity, firm tannins and complex aromas. Even though Barolo can look relatively pale in the glass, it can be powerful and structured, with the best wines developing beautifully over many years.

What style of Barolo do you enjoy?

Some Barolo is floral, lifted and elegant, with red cherry, rose and spice, while other examples are broader, darker and more structured. Vineyard site, producer style and ageing all influence the result. Younger wines can be firm and energetic, while mature Barolo often becomes more savoury, aromatic and complex.

Choosing Barolo for food

Barolo's acidity and tannin make it particularly good with rich, savoury food. It works beautifully with beef, lamb, game, braised dishes, mushrooms, truffle and mature cheeses. The wine's structure helps cut through richness while its earthy, aromatic character complements deeper flavours.

Understanding Barolo and Nebbiolo

Barolo is one of the most famous expressions of Nebbiolo, but the grape is grown elsewhere in Piedmont too. What makes Barolo distinctive is the combination of Nebbiolo, specific vineyard sites and the region's ageing requirements. The result can be both powerful and surprisingly delicate, with fragrance, freshness and structure developing together.

Barolo FAQs

What grape is Barolo made from?

Barolo is made entirely from Nebbiolo. It is one of Piedmont's most important grape varieties and is known for its perfume, acidity, tannin and ability to age.

What does Barolo taste like?

Typical flavours and aromas include red cherry, rose, dried flowers, herbs, spice, leather and earthy notes. With age, Barolo can become increasingly savoury and complex.

Does Barolo need ageing?

Many Barolo wines benefit from bottle age because Nebbiolo naturally has high acidity and firm tannins. Some modern styles are approachable earlier, but well-made Barolo can develop for many years and often gains complexity as it matures.

What food goes with Barolo?

Barolo is excellent with roast or braised beef, lamb, game, mushrooms, truffle dishes and mature cheeses. Its acidity and tannin work particularly well with rich, savoury food.

Continue exploring distinctive wines from Piedmont

Nebbiolo Wine Piedmont Barbaresco Barbera Dolcetto Italian Red Wine