At a glance

Producer

Cavallotto

Region

Barolo, Piemonte, Italy

Grape variety

Nebbiolo

Wine type

Red

Body

Full-bodied and Bold

Sweetness

Dry

Typical price

$70-$120

Tasting profile

Notes of dark cherry, tar, rose petals, leather, and earth with firm tannic backbone

Evolution: Will develop complex tertiary notes of truffle, forest floor, dried herbs and tobacco over next decade

At peak: Silky tannins, balanced acidity with deep, layered complexity and long finish

Structure

Acidity

High, vibrant and balancing

Tannins

High, structured and grippy

Alcohol

14.0%-14.5%

Aging potential

25-35 years

Drinking window

Peak drinking

2030 to 2050

Optimal window

2026 to 2053

Current status

Approaching maturity with excellent aging potential

Current condition

Firm tannins with developing tertiary aromas; still youthful but starting to integrate

Based on Nebbiolo's natural tannic structure and acidity, especially from the Bricco Boschis cru which is renowned for longevity, the wine typically requires 8-12 years to soften tannins and reveals peak complexity after 12+ years. The excellent 2018 vintage supports prolonged aging near 30+ years.

Food pairing

Braised meats, truffle dishes, aged cheeses, hearty stews, and game bird preparations complement the wine’s tannic grip and complex aromas.

Serving

Serving temperature

16-18°C / 61-64°F

Decant

Yes (1-2 hours) — To allow the wine to open and soften the structured tannins, enhancing aromatic expression

Sustainability

Sustainability score: 7/10

Cavallotto employs traditional viticulture with focus on minimal intervention, use of cover crops, careful canopy management, and reduced chemical inputs. They emphasize water conservation and natural biodiversity in vineyards.

While lacking formal organic or biodynamic certification, Cavallotto is known for sustainable viticultural stewardship with efforts to maintain healthy soils and reduce environmental impact. The estate’s regional proximity to major consumer markets helps reduce transportation emissions compared to New World imports.