Barolo Chinato, Vecchia Formular

Wine Description for Barolo Chinato Vecchia Formulare by Roagna

Colour & Appearance

Deep, luminous mahogany red with amber-tinted reflections – the colour alone tells of depth, time and artisanal care.

Nose

A captivating kaleidoscope of bitter cocoa, dried rose petals and cinchona bark. Beneath this shimmer warm notes of orange peel, cardamom, cloves and a whisper of liquorice. The characteristic Nebbiolo spice – tar, violets, alpine herbs – glimmers through the aromatic complexity, lending the whole an almost meditative depth.

Palate

Silky yet threaded through with a refreshing bitterness that makes this Chinato so irresistible. The residual sweetness is present, but never cumbersome – it is elegantly held in check by the vibrant acidity of Nebbiolo and a refined tannin structure. Aromas of dark chocolate, walnut, gentian and dried wild herbs unfold in waves. At 20% alcohol, the body is full and warm, without ever burning.

Finish

Long, complex and marked by a wonderful bittersweet elegance. The finish lingers – with notes of espresso, dark chocolate and a final whisper of dry herbal spice.

Terroir & Origin

Azienda I Paglieri by Roagna lies in the heart of Barbaresco in Piedmont – one of Italy’s most venerable wine regions. Sustainable vineyard management and a deeply rooted commitment to tradition define the philosophy of this house.

Grape Variety & Vinification

The foundation is the great Nebbiolo, which according to an old, proprietary recipe – the Vecchia Formulare – is macerated with cinchona bark and a carefully guarded bouquet of herbs, then fortified with alcohol. Ageing takes place traditionally in large wooden casks; barrique has no place at Roagna. The result is a Barolo Chinato of extraordinary authenticity.

Food Pairing Suggestions

The classic companion: dark chocolate or a simple piece of Torta di nocciole. Equally wonderful with Gorgonzola dolce, Panna Cotta or on its own, after the meal, as a contemplative digestif – best served lightly chilled in a liqueur glass.

Special Features

Barolo Chinato is an almost forgotten Piedmontese cultural treasure, which Roagna preserves in its most original form with this traditional house recipe. A testament to the fact that true craftsmanship knows no compromises – and no haste.

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