Barolo PERNO 2015

Sordo Giovanni Barolo PERNO 2015 is a serious and traditionally styled Barolo from the prestigious Perno cru in Monforte d’Alba, made from 100% Nebbiolo. The vineyard lies at approximately 270–400 metres elevation with a south-eastern exposure, on distinctive tufaceous soils containing layers of red earth, sand and clay over a rocky, consolidated substrate. This combination gives the wine the characteristic combination of dark fruit, mineral depth, freshness and firm structure associated with the Monforte side of Barolo.

The 2015 shows a complex and increasingly mature bouquet of ripe cherry, red and blue berries, violet and liquorice, complemented by mint, tobacco, sweet spices and subtle mineral and earthy nuances. On the palate it is dry, full-bodied and firmly structured, with excellent concentration, vibrant acidity and ripe, grainy tannins that provide considerable length. A tasting of the 2015 noted cranberry fruit, savoury spice and juicy tannins, while other assessments highlight the wine's darker blue-fruit character, mint and tobacco.

The wine is produced with a particularly traditional, extended maceration of four to seven weeks, followed by malolactic fermentation and maturation for 24 months in large Slavonian-oak barrels. It then spends another 4–6 months in stainless steel and at least six months in bottle before release. The large-format oak is deliberately restrained, allowing the Nebbiolo and Perno terroir to remain at the centre while the extended élevage softens the substantial tannic framework.

The 2015 is now entering an excellent drinking window, but this is not a Barolo that should be considered over the hill. Its firm tannins and acidity give it substantial longevity; Wine Spectator's assessment suggested drinking from 2023 through 2039, while another tasting specifically recommended waiting beyond 2026. At around eleven years from vintage, it should be developing increasingly complex notes of dried flowers, leather, tobacco, underbrush and balsamic spice, while retaining its dark-fruit core. A classic, powerful and genuinely age-worthy Barolo, particularly suited to truffles, braised and roasted beef, game, mushroom dishes, rich Piedmontese pasta and mature cheeses.