90+ Cellars Barolo

90+ Cellars Barolo is a Nebbiolo from Piedmont, bottled under the importer's Lot series label. Each lot is sourced from an established producer, so the vineyard and cellar behind a given bottle can change from one lot to the next. Barolo is the region's most structured expression of the grape, and wines in this style usually show pale garnet colour that can drift toward brick at the rim. Expect aromas of dried cherry, rose petal, tar and dried herbs, often with hints of licorice, leather or forest floor. On the palate, styles like this tend to be medium to full in body, with firm, grippy tannins and high, mouth-watering acidity. Alcohol is typically moderate to high, and the finish is long and savoury. Oak influence varies by producer, from large neutral casks that keep the fruit lean and perfumed to small barrels that add spice and a rounder texture. Nebbiolo's tannin and acidity call for fat and salt. Braised short ribs, osso buco, wild mushroom risotto, tajarin with butter and shaved white truffle, and aged hard cheeses such as Parmigiano-Reggiano or Castelmagno all soften its grip. Roast game and slow-cooked beef in red wine work as well. Avoid delicate fish and very spicy dishes, which will make the tannins feel harsher. Serve it slightly below room temperature, around 60 to 65°F (15 to 18°C). Warmer than that, the alcohol stands out and the perfume goes flat. Because Barolo is tight and tannic when young, decant it for an hour or two before serving, or at least pour it into a wide-bowled glass ahead of the meal to open the aromatics. A large Burgundy-style glass with a generous bowl gives the delicate floral and tar notes room to develop. Barolo is built for the cellar, though how long a bottle rewards waiting depends on the producer and vintage, and the details vary by lot. If you open it now, give it time in the decanter and put food on the table. If you keep it, store it on its side in a cool, dark place, where the tannins can relax and the fruit can shift toward dried fruit, spice and earth.