Frequently Asked Questions
Renato Ratti Barolo Marcenasco is a masterpiece of Italian winemaking that embodies the noble heritage of the Piedmont region. Crafted from 100% Nebbiolo grapes grown in the historic La Morra area, this garnet-red Barolo showcases elegance and power in perfect harmony. With captivating aromas of rose, cherry, and spices, it offers a full-bodied palate featuring notes of ripe red berries, licorice, and tobacco, complemented by silky tannins and vibrant acidity. Aged in oak barrels for 24 months, this wine is ideal for pairing with gourmet dishes like roasted meats, game, and aged cheeses, and it promises graceful longevity, making it a treasure for collectors or enthusiasts seeking refined Italian wines.
Process & Profile
The Renato Ratti Barolo Marcenasco epitomizes the rich history and meticulous craftsmanship of Piedmont's La Morra region. Made exclusively from 100% Nebbiolo grapes, this wine traces its legacy to the 12th century, with its first modern vintage released in 1965. The grapes are handpicked in October, then undergo a traditional vinification process that includes fermentation in temperature-controlled stainless steel containers. Extended contact with grape skins and post-fermentation maceration with a submerged cap system ensures maximum flavor extraction. Aging spans over two years in oak barrels (25–50hl), followed by an additional year of bottle refinement, resulting in a wine of elegance, balance, and complexity.Tasting Notes
Renato Ratti Barolo Marcenasco dazzles with its garnet-red color and layered aromas of licorice, tobacco, camphor, and dried flowers like iris. The palate reveals elegant notes of ripe red fruits such as cranberry and cherry, complemented by accents of blood orange, star anise, and minerality. A sturdy yet polished structure is underpinned by vibrant acidity and enveloping tannins, culminating in a long, graceful finish with hints of leather, bramble, and a touch of savory almond.What Makes It Special
This wine represents the quintessence of La Morra's terroir, celebrated for its smooth and balanced Nebbiolo profiles. The Marcenasco vineyard is a historic single-vineyard site, and Renato Ratti pioneered its classification as a benchmark for modern Barolo excellence. The label itself carries a nod to its heritage, featuring the Marcenasco noble family crest and the Latin phrase "Probasti me et cognovisti me," meaning "You tried me, you knew me." Moreover, its adaptability to long aging ensures that it evolves beautifully in bottle, rewarding patience with deeper complexity and finesse over decades.How to Enjoy
Ideal for special occasions or as a pairing for refined cuisine, Barolo Marcenasco is exceptionally food-friendly. Serve at around 16–18°C (60–64°F) to pair it with roasted red meats, game, gourmet dishes featuring white or red meats, and aged cheeses. For the best sensory experience, decant the wine at least one hour before serving, especially when enjoyed young. While this vintage is approachable now, allowing it to age until 2029 or beyond will reward you with an even more profound depth of flavor. Renato Ratti Barolo Marcenasco embodies the perfect marriage of tradition and elegance, making it a must-have for any wine enthusiast's collection. Whether you're savoring it today or letting it grace your cellar for future indulgence, this Barolo promises a journey into the heart of Piedmont's winemaking heritage.Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Renato Ratti Barolo Marcenasco made of?
Renato Ratti Barolo Marcenasco is made from 100% Nebbiolo grapes sourced from the historic Marcenasco area in La Morra, Piedmont, Italy. Nebbiolo is known for producing wines with great elegance and aging potential.
What does the wine taste like?
This Barolo offers a full-bodied and harmonious palate with layers of dark cherry, dried plum, blackberry, and subtle notes of tobacco and spice. It combines vibrant acidity, firm tannins, and a long, refined finish, making it both bold and elegant.
What are the ideal food pairings for this wine?
Renato Ratti Barolo Marcenasco pairs excellently with roasted or grilled red meats, game, gourmet white meats, cured meats, and aged cheeses. It also complements rich dishes like truffle risotto and handmade pasta.
How should I serve this wine?
Serve the wine at a temperature of 60–68°F (15–20°C) in a glass designed to collect aromas, such as a Burgundy glass. Decant the wine for at least an hour to fully develop its complex flavors and aromas.
How long can this wine age?
Renato Ratti Barolo Marcenasco is suitable for long aging. While it is approachable now, it can age gracefully for several decades, reaching a sweet spot around 10–15 years after harvest, depending on the vintage.
What is the alcohol content of this wine?
The wine has an alcohol content of 14%, typical of Barolos, which balances its rich flavors and structure.
What makes Marcenasco Barolo unique?
This wine is one of the first single-vineyard Barolos, created by Renato Ratti in 1965. It reflects the elegance and structure characteristic of the La Morra sub-zone, with smooth tannins and graceful finesse. The label honors the Marcenasco region's long history dating back to the 12th century.
What are the critical reviews and ratings for this wine?
Renato Ratti Barolo Marcenasco has received high acclaim, with ratings such as 96 points by James Suckling and 94+ by Wine Advocate, highlighting its balance, finesse, and aromatic complexity.
What is the aging process for this Barolo?
The wine undergoes 24 months of refinement in French and Slavonian oak barrels (25-50 hl) followed by one year of bottle aging. This process enhances its structure, depth, and potential for longevity.
What are some of the distinctive aromas and flavors of this Barolo?
The wine is marked by aromas of roses, licorice, tobacco, and red fruits like cherries and strawberries, with hints of bramble and leather. On the palate, it reveals a blend of fruit, spice, and earthy complexity that evolves with age.
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