Giacomo Conterno, Barolo, "francia," Piedmont 2010

From the record

GIACOMO CONTERNO, BAROLO, "FRANCIA," PIEDMONT 2010 is documented in the Cartelier archive as served at Protégé in Palo Alto, CA. It appears on the menu of April 15, 2021, one of 6 items served that wine. As printed, the kitchen describes it: Perhaps the greatest of all Nebbiolo producers, Giacomo Conterno is the quintessence of “traditional” Barolo, with massively structured wines capable of extremely long development in bottle. The Cascina Francia vineyard, located in in Serralunga, was acquired in 1974. With its fabulous southern exposure, this site is ideal for the powerful Conterno style. The nose teases with sweet rose petals, polished sandlewood, and fine mineral notes. An incredible combination of power and finesse, the palate is packed with ripe tannins. The remarkable purity and persistence of ripe cherry and plum, which has a slightly wild and exotic edge to it, accents licorice and sweet tobacco flavors. IDEAL DRINKING WINDOW: 2025-2035 PAIRING RECOMMENDATIONS: With Nebbiolo’s delicate aromas but bold tannin, you’ll want to pair with meats that have enough fat to absorb the ample tannin. The wine’s high acidity gives it the ability to match higher acid foods with saltiness, but remember to balance by adding enough fat or oil to compliment the wine’s tannin. Barolo is traditionally paired with hearty fare like Italian-inspired Braised Shortribs or Wild Mushroom Risotto dishes. It also pairs beautifully with Asian cuisine such as Pekin Duck with Hoisin Sauce. DECANT: 1-2 hours in advance STEMWARE: Large Burgundy glasses such as Zalto Denk’Art Burgundy or Riedel Sommeliers Burgundy Grand Cru IDEAL SERVICE TEMPERATURE: 65°F. Every appearance below preserves the menu exactly as published — source, hash, and date — so this dish can be read as it stood on any documented evening.