PAOLO CONTERNO BAROLO RIVA BRIC

Paolo Conterno Barolo Riva del Bric is a traditional Barolo DOCG wine from Piedmont, Italy, produced by Paolo Conterno. It is made entirely from Nebbiolo grapes and is considered one of the estate’s key single-vineyard expressions, sourced from the Riva del Bric cru in Monforte d’Alba.

Grape and Classification

This wine is 100% Nebbiolo, the signature grape of Barolo. It carries the Barolo DOCG designation, meaning it is produced under strict regulations in the Barolo zone of Piedmont and requires extended aging before release.

Vineyard and Origin

The Riva del Bric vineyard sits in Monforte d’Alba at roughly 300–350 meters altitude, with steep slopes and clay-limestone soils. These conditions are ideal for Nebbiolo, contributing to firm structure, high acidity, and aging potential.

Winemaking and Aging

1. Grapes are hand-harvested, typically in early October
2. Fermentation is followed by 15–20 days of maceration for color and tannin extraction
3. Aged in traditional large oak casks (“botti”)
4. Further refinement in bottle before release

This traditional approach emphasizes structure and longevity rather than heavy new oak influence.

Appearance

Classic Barolo garnet red, often lightening at the rim with age.

Aroma (Nose)

Highly aromatic and evolving with age:

1. Red cherry and wild berries
2. Rose petals and floral tones
3. Earth, dried herbs, and subtle tar-like notes as it matures
4. Light spice and forest floor complexity in older bottles

Flavor (Palate)

Structured and powerful but refined:

1. Bright red fruit (cherry, raspberry) upfront
2. Firm, drying tannins typical of Nebbiolo
3. High acidity giving freshness and lift
4. Layers of earth, leather, and spice developing with age
5. Oak influence is subtle and supportive rather than dominant

The wine is described as elegant but robust, with a softer, more integrated finish as it opens.

Finish

Long and persistent:

1. Lingering tannins
2. Red fruit fading into earth and spice
3. Increasing complexity with bottle age

Overall Character

This is a classic, traditional-style Barolo: structured, tannic in youth, and built for long aging. It is not an immediate “fruit-forward” wine; instead, it rewards patience, often evolving significantly over 10–20 years.

Food Pairing

Best with rich, structured dishes such as:

1. Braised or roasted beef
2. Game meats (venison, wild boar)
3. Lamb
4. Aged hard cheeses

Context within Barolo

Within Barolo wine, Riva del Bric represents a more traditional Monforte d’Alba expression—emphasizing structure, longevity, and classic Nebbiolo aromatics rather than modern fruit-driven styling.