At a glance

Producer

Azienda Agricola Palladino

Region

Barolo, Piedmont, Italy

Grape variety

Nebbiolo

Wine type

Red

Body

Full-bodied and Bold

Sweetness

Dry

Typical price

$50-$70

Tasting profile

Closed bouquet with notes of rose petal, tar, cherry, and hints of forest floor.

Evolution: Over next 5-10 years, tertiary aromas like leather and truffle will develop, while tannins soften.

At peak: Complex layered bouquet with balanced structure, silky tannins and persistent finish.

Structure

Acidity

High acidity, typical of Nebbiolo

Tannins

Firm and well-structured

Alcohol

13.5-14.5%

Aging potential

25-35 years due to quality Nebbiolo fruit and Riserva status

Drinking window

Peak drinking

2028 to 2041

Optimal window

2024 to 2044

Current status

Approaching optimal drinking window

Current condition

Wine is currently maturing well, with tannins still integrating and primary fruit characteristics evolving.

The Palladino Barolo Riserva San Bernardo 2016 is a full-bodied Nebbiolo from a strong vintage in Piedmont. High tannin and acid content give it long aging potential. The Riserva designation adds extra concentration and complexity, extending drinking window significantly compared to standard Barolo vintages. Therefore, optimal drinking starts about 8 years post-vintage and extends 20+ years, peaking roughly 12-19 years after vintage.

Food pairing

Classic pairings include roasted game, truffle dishes, aged hard cheeses, braised beef, and rich mushroom risotto.

Serving

Serving temperature

18°C / 64°F

Decant

Yes (1-2 hours) — To open the wine’s bouquet and soften firm tannins for balanced palate integration.

Sustainability

Sustainability score: 7/10

Use of sustainable viticulture with limited chemical inputs, soil conservation, and water management strategies. Packaging uses lightweight bottles to minimize transport emissions.

Azienda Agricola Palladino adopts sustainable farming techniques balancing quality and environmental responsibility, though lacks formal organic or biodynamic certification. Moderate carbon footprint balanced by regional sourcing and energy-conscious cellar practices.