Il Poeta Barolo 2013

Centered on the bewitching Nebbiolo grape, Barolo – ‘The King of Wines, The Wine of Kings’ – is one of Italy’s (and the world’s) greatest reds. Compared to other reds of its caliber, it’s also a bargain – especially when you consider the aging potential. In fact, Il Poeta 2013 will cellar beautifully until 2030!

But first, there’s the vintage. As Italian wine expert James Suckling writes: “The more I taste the 2013 vintage for Barolo, the more I like it. The vintage made across-the-board beauties that show precision and intensity. 2013 is surely one of the best vintages since 2008 …”

With plaudits like these, prices seem sure to skyrocket – and whether you’re a Barolo fan or have it on your bucket list, now’s the time to pounce. Our pick of the vintage? This pride-and-joy masterpiece of passionate, small grower Natale Seghesio and winemaker Paolo Sartirano. Il Poeta hits all the high notes of a classic Barolo.

“Perfumed and elegant with poached plum, truffle and subtle leather and vanilla notes from 38 months’ maturation, 18 of them in oak barrels. The palate displays bright berry fruit, juicy black cherry, violet and mocha, underpinned by fresh acidity and bold, supple tannins. The finish is long and gracious with a smoky spice accent. Il Poeta will mature beautifully in bottle for many years more,” says Paolo.

Adding to the enjoyment is the text on the label. Natale (aka Il Poeta) is among the last of Piedmont’s traditional masuè sharecroppers. Every year, he famously writes a commemorative poem about the vintage. Enjoy reading it while you take in this wine’s ripe, nuanced fruit and spicy complexity (the result of that luxurious aging in traditional Slavonian oak casks).

A fine wine buy that’ll reward for years to come. Drink now or over the next decade-plus. Don’t miss out.