As an expert sommelier and brewer, I have had the opportunity to taste numerous vintages of Barolo, and I must say that the 2017 vintage has surprised me in a positive way. Initially, there were concerns about the 2017 vintage due to it following the exceptional 2016 vintage. Many believed that it would be overshadowed and considered a less successful year for Barolo. However, I have found that the wines from the 2017 vintage are not only enjoyable but also ready to be enjoyed now and in the medium term.
One of the first things I noticed when tasting the 2017 Barolos is the richness they possess. The wines are expressive and vibrant, with a depth of flavor that is truly captivating. The warm weather during the growing season in 2017 resulted in grapes that were able to fully ripen, leading to wines with ripe fruit flavors and a beautiful concentration. The richness of these wines makes them incredibly approachable and enjoyable, even at a relatively young age.
Another characteristic of the 2017 Barolo vintage that stood out to me is the friendliness of the wines. They have a certain charm and accessibility that is often associated with wines from more immediately approachable vintages. The tannins in the 2017 Barolos are softer and more supple, allowing the fruit flavors to shine through. This makes the wines very easy to drink and enjoy without the need for extensive aging or decanting. Whether you are a seasoned Barolo connoisseur or a newcomer to these wines, the 2017 vintage offers a welcoming introduction to the world of Barolo.
In terms of the ageability of the 2017 Barolos, while they may not have the same potential for long-term aging as some of the more structured vintages, they certainly have the ability to develop and evolve over the medium term. This means that while they are ready to be enjoyed now, they can also be cellared for a few more years to allow further complexity to develop. The balance between fruit, tannins, and acidity in these wines gives them the potential to age gracefully and become even more nuanced with time.
In my personal experience, I have had the pleasure of enjoying several bottles of 2017 Barolo with friends and colleagues. We found that these wines were incredibly versatile when it came to food pairings. They complemented a wide range of dishes, from classic Italian cuisine such as pasta with ragu to more exotic flavors like Indian curry. The richness and depth of flavor in the 2017 Barolos allowed them to hold their own against bold and flavorful dishes, while the friendly tannins ensured a smooth and enjoyable drinking experience.
Despite initial concerns about the 2017 Barolo vintage, I believe that these wines are ready to drink and offer a delightful experience. The richness, friendliness, and approachability of the wines make them enjoyable now, while their potential for medium-term aging adds an extra layer of complexity. Whether you are a seasoned Barolo enthusiast or a curious wine lover looking to explore these iconic wines, I highly recommend giving the 2017 vintage a try.