Barolo Chinato, Non Vintage Sweet Wine
Marchesi di Barolo
Bottle size: 100cl
ABV: 16%
Price:
£129.00
Description
The *Barolo Chinato* from Marchesi di Barolo is a classic expression of one of Piedmont’s most distinctive and historic aromatised wines, uniting the elegance of aged Barolo with the complexity of a traditional infusion of herbs, spices, and botanicals. Using a base of fine Nebbiolo, already rich in aromas of rose, cherry, and subtle spice, the wine is steeped with quinine bark (*china*), rhubarb root, cinnamon, cloves, and other closely guarded ingredients. This process creates a bittersweet, velvety elixir originally developed in the late 19th century as both a digestif and a restorative tonic, but now celebrated as a refined after-dinner indulgence.
In the glass, Marchesi di Barolo’s *Barolo Chinato* shows a deep garnet-brown colour with warm amber highlights, reflecting its maturity and aromatic infusion. The bouquet is rich and inviting, opening with dried cherry, plum, and candied orange peel, followed by warm notes of cinnamon, nutmeg, and clove. Herbal tones of quinine and gentian weave through, balanced by hints of cocoa, liquorice, and subtle balsamic complexity.
On the palate, it is smooth, full-bodied, and beautifully balanced between sweetness, spice, and gentle bitterness. Flavours of spiced red fruit, dark chocolate, and caramelised citrus are complemented by a measured herbal depth, while Nebbiolo’s fine tannins provide structure. A fresh, vibrant acidity keeps the wine lively, and the finish is long, layered, and warming, leaving lingering impressions of botanicals and bittersweet cocoa.
Best served slightly chilled or at cellar temperature, this *Barolo Chinato* is superb as a digestif, either on its own in a tulip glass or paired with high-quality dark chocolate, nut-based desserts, or aged blue cheeses. Marchesi di Barolo’s rendition is a true ambassador for the style—combining the nobility of Barolo with the complexity of herbal infusion, and offering a taste of Piedmontese tradition at its most elegant.
Condition
Good conditions
