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Barolo, 1971 Red Wine

Cav. Ceste

Bottle size: 75cl

ABV: 13%

Price:

£159.00

1 In Stock

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Description

Vintage & Background

The 1971 vintage in Piedmont is widely regarded as one of the great post-war years for Barolo, producing wines of remarkable structure, perfume, and longevity. A small crop and ideal late-season conditions allowed Nebbiolo to ripen beautifully, giving wines with exceptional ageing potential. Cav Ceste’s 1971 Barolo now offers a rare opportunity to experience a mature expression from this celebrated vintage, showing the classical depth and elegance for which old Barolo is revered.

Appearance & Nose

The colour has evolved to a luminous garnet with amber-brick reflections at the rim, a hallmark of mature Nebbiolo. The nose is layered and expressive, opening with aromas of dried rose petals, red cherry, and cranberry, followed by classic notes of leather, tar, and sweet spice. With aeration, tertiary nuances of truffle, tobacco leaf, forest floor, and a gentle balsamic lift emerge, adding depth and complexity. These mature “tar and roses” characteristics are quintessential to well-aged Barolo.

Palate & Texture

On the palate, the wine shows both finesse and persistence. Flavours of dried cherry, redcurrant, and stewed strawberry are interwoven with notes of leather, cedar, earthy spice, and tea leaf. The tannins, once firm and powerful, have softened into a fine, silky structure, while the naturally vibrant acidity of Nebbiolo continues to provide lift and definition. The texture remains polished yet still structured, leading to a long, savoury finish with echoes of rose petal, spice, and mineral undertones.

Maturity & Drinking Window

Now fully mature, the 1971 Cav Ceste Barolo is drinking beautifully at present, with tertiary complexity now the dominant feature over primary fruit. Well-stored bottles may continue to offer pleasure for several more years, though it is firmly within its optimal drinking window and best appreciated now for its evolved character.

Food Pairing & Serving Suggestions

Serve at around 17–18 °C and decant carefully to allow the aromatics to fully open. Ideal with braised beef, slow-cooked lamb, game dishes, truffle risotto, or aged hard cheeses such as Parmigiano Reggiano. Its structure and acidity make it a superb companion to rich, slow-cooked Italian cuisine.

Decanting

For best results, stand the bottle upright for 2–3 days before opening to allow any sediment to settle. As with many mature wines, the cork may have become fragile with age and should be removed carefully. We recommend decanting gently through a fine strainer to catch any cork fragments or sediment, then allowing the wine to breathe for 30–60 minutes before serving. Serve at 17–18 °C.


Overall Impression & Verdict

1971 Cav Ceste Barolo is a superb example of mature traditional Barolo from a benchmark vintage. Combining aromatic finesse, tertiary complexity, and beautifully resolved structure, it delivers a deeply satisfying and classically styled old Nebbiolo experience that rewards both contemplation and pairing at the table.

Condition

Good conditions

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