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The 1964 vintage for Barolo is widely celebrated as a legendary year, earning a top rating of five stars plus from Italian wine authorities. It was described as splendidly balanced and intensely scented, though initially firm and built for a long life. This was a hot vintage with a late harvest, yielding a substantial crop in Piedmont, and the wines were known for their high tannin levels, requiring considerable time to evolve. Francesco Rinaldi, a historic producer since 1870, is renowned for its traditional winemaking, utilising large Slavonian oak casks to craft Barolos structured with tannin, leather, and classic aromatics, designed for extensive ageing. Antonio Galloni notes that Rinaldi's wines are among the most traditional interpretations of Barolo, demanding patience. Some tasters have observed that the 1964 Rinaldi Barolo can retain an unyielding, monolithic character even with age.
On the palate, these wines were noted for their relatively deep colour, significant weight, and texture, presenting both savoury and sweet notes, with some describing slightly degraded fruit. They are often rounded, lacking the crisp acidity typically associated with Barolo, yet remain remarkably youthful. Specific tasting notes include sous bois, dark red fruits, leather, tar, light spice, earthy undertones, and dry rustic tannins. Some have found it surprisingly dark and concentrated for a 60-year-old wine, suggesting it could be mistaken for a 1990s Barolo, and it benefits from aeration.
This wine is an exceptional choice for a milestone anniversary, a significant celebration, or a contemplative evening for serious wine enthusiasts who appreciate the profound evolution and complexity of aged Nebbiolo. 【Legendary five-star vintage with exceptional aging potential】. Given its age, this 1964 Barolo will likely present a brick-red to orange-tinged garnet hue. The cork may be fragile, so a Durand opener or a two-pronged cork puller is highly recommended. Expect significant sediment; stand the bottle upright for several days prior to serving. Decant gently for 1-2 hours to allow the wine to open up and separate from sediment, but be mindful that very old wines can sometimes fade quickly after prolonged aeration. Serve at approximately 18-20°C (64-68°F).
Food pairing suggestions include rich, umami-driven Piedmontese cuisine, such as guanciale pasta, dishes featuring truffles or porcini, braised meats, and aged cheeses. Avoid delicate, lightly flavoured preparations that would be overwhelmed by the wine's complexity.