2020 Luigi Pira Barolo Serralunga, Piedmont

Luigi Pira Barolo Serralunga is a classic expression of Nebbiolo from the renowned village of Serralunga d’Alba in Piedmont, Italy. Produced by the esteemed Luigi Pira estate, a family-run winery with a reputation for crafting terroir-driven Barolos, this wine embodies the power, structure, and elegance characteristic of Serralunga. It offers an accessible introduction to the estate’s range while maintaining the high standards for which Luigi Pira is celebrated.

The Nebbiolo grapes are sourced from select vineyards in Serralunga d’Alba, an area famed for its limestone-rich marl soils and optimal sun exposure. These factors, combined with the village’s unique microclimate, create wines with bold tannins, vibrant acidity, and remarkable aging potential. Luigi Pira carefully manages the vineyards to ensure low yields and high-quality fruit, a hallmark of the estate’s meticulous approach.

In the winery, traditional methods are combined with modern precision to craft a Barolo that reflects its origins. Grapes are hand-harvested and undergo fermentation in stainless steel tanks with extended maceration to extract the full depth of Nebbiolo’s flavors and tannins. The wine is aged in large Slavonian oak casks for two years, followed by additional time in bottle before release, allowing the wine to achieve harmony and balance.

In the glass, Luigi Pira Barolo Serralunga reveals a bright garnet color with ruby highlights. The nose is inviting and layered, offering aromas of red cherries, wild berries, and dried roses, interwoven with notes of leather, tobacco, and a touch of earthy truffle. On the palate, it is full-bodied and structured, with firm yet refined tannins supporting flavors of ripe red fruits, licorice, and a hint of spice. The finish is long and persistent, showcasing the mineral-driven complexity of Serralunga’s terroir.

This Barolo is versatile in food pairings, complementing traditional dishes such as braised beef (Brasato al Barolo), wild mushroom risotto, or tagliatelle with truffle. It also pairs beautifully with roasted game or aged cheeses. While approachable in its youth, it will reward cellaring for up to 10-15 years, evolving with greater complexity over time.