Barolo Fontanafredda 1997
This 1997 Barolo DOCG from Fontanafredda is produced in Piedmont, a prestigious wine region in northwestern Italy surrounded by the Alps. The name Piedmont literally translates to "at the foot of the mountain." The region is celebrated for its profound focus on terroir and its dramatic, steep hills, particularly in the Langhe area southwest of Alba. Here, thick autumn morning fog often blankets the landscape, protecting the grapes and providing a long, perfect ripening period. The 1997 vintage from this area achieved a score of 88 points and is described as soft and ripe.
Barolo is one of Piedmont's most renowned appellations and is inextricably linked to Nebbiolo. Recognized as an Italian top grape, Nebbiolo is known for yielding elegant wines with significant structure. In accordance with the classic traditions of the area, this wine is crafted from 100% Nebbiolo.
The Fontanafredda estate boasts an origin story akin to a historical drama. It was founded in 1858 by King Vittorio Emanuele II, Italy's first king following the unification, as a gift for his mistress and eventual wife, Rosa Vercellana, affectionately known as 'Bella Rosin'. Their son, Emanuele Alberto, Count of Mirafiore, further developed the winery and released the estate's first Barolo label with the 1878 vintage. Today, the property's distinctive buildings still feature brown and ochre stripes, proudly displaying the Savoy colors as a visible testament to its royal heritage.
After being sold to the Monte dei Paschi di Siena bank in 1931, the estate entered a new chapter in 2008 when it was acquired by Oscar Farinetti and Luca Baffigo. This modern ownership has placed a strong emphasis on sustainability, eventually making Fontanafredda the largest certified organic winery in Piedmont. The estate holds a highly unusual position within the Barolo appellation, as the entire Fontanafredda property constitutes its own MGA and monopole-cru—a unique status in an area where most crus are divided among numerous owners. With 120 hectares of vineyards set within a broader estate of over 300 hectares, it stands as Italy's largest contiguous vineyard.
The history of the wine
Below, you can delve into the history of this wine — its producer, grape, area, and region.
Piedmont
Piedmont (which literally means "at the foot of the mountain") is located in northwestern Italy, surrounded by the Alps. It is considered one of the world's absolute most prestigious wine regions. The area is known for small, passionate, family-run wineries and a huge focus on terroir (how the soil and microclimate affect the wine).
Classic characteristics of Piedmont:
The royal wines: This is where the world-famous, complex and expensive red wines Barolo and Barbaresco come from (both made from 100% Nebbiolo).
Everyday heroes: In addition to Nebbiolo, the region is famous for the grapes Barbera (juicy, acidic and incredibly popular) and Dolcetto (dark, soft and fruity).
The white and sweet: Piedmont also makes the crisp white wine Gavi and the famous, lightly sparkling dessert bubbles Moscato d'Asti.
The landscape: Dramatic, steep hills – especially in the Langhe sub-area. The hills are often shrouded in thick morning mist in autumn, which protects the grapes and allows for a long, perfect ripening.
Gastronomy: An absolute mecca for food lovers. The area is world famous for the exclusive white truffles from Alba, hazelnuts and rich, simmered dishes that scream with a glass of local red wine.
When this wine was made, the world looked very different. Here are some of the stories that unfolded while this bottle quietly aged in its cellar.
You are in safe hands
100% authentic bottles
All bottles undergo a thorough authenticity test by our certified sommeliers before being offered for sale. We reject bottles we are unsure about.
Thorough quality check
Cork, capsule, fill level, label condition, and provenance are individually documented for each bottle. A physical certificate is included with every purchase.
60-day return policy
We are confident in the quality of our wines, and you as a buyer should be too. Return any unopened bottle within 60 days for a full refund — no questions asked.
4.7 on Trustpilot
277 customers have shared their experience. From the first email to the bottle arriving safely – we take pride in making a difference from start to finish.
How it handles
you your wine
Storage
Store the bottle horizontally at 12–14°C and avoid direct sunlight, vibrations, and temperature fluctuations.
Opening
Allow the bottle to stand upright for 24–48 hours before opening to allow sediment to settle. Use a professional corkscrew and open carefully.
Enjoyment
Serve at 17–18°C and be patient – there is a great difference in how and how quickly wines open up when they are aerated.
GUIDE TO THE GOOD WINE EXPERIENCE
We will help you throughout the journey. Here you can read our guide on how to treat the wine. If you have any questions, you are always welcome to write or call us.
Our customers say it best!
Based on 247 reviews