Azelia Barolo 2021 is a classic and deeply expressive red wine that blends the elegance of Castiglione Falletto with the power of Serralunga d'Alba.

The wine is produced by Azienda Agricola Azelia, where the Scavino family (Luigi, Lorella, and Lorenzo) manages 16 hectares of vineyards with a philosophy of artisanal precision and minimal intervention. The "normale" (classic) Barolo is a key bottling for the estate, crafted from a meticulous blend of seven different single-vineyard sites. By sourcing grapes from both the white calcareous soils of Castiglione (30%) and the heavier clay soils of Serralunga (70%), Azelia achieves a superlative balance of aroma and body.

Wine Description

The 2021 vintage presents a lustrous ruby colour and a vibrant, detailed sensory profile.

• Aromas: The nose is an engaging mix of fresh rosehip, cranberry, and pomegranate, layered with darker notes of cherry, blackcurrant, and licorice. Subtle hints of pine, mint, and nutmeg add complexity.

• Palate: Medium-to-full-bodied and "vivacious," it offers a succulent core of fruit sweetness balanced by a bright, tangy acidity. It is characterized by ripe, well-integrated tannins that provide a firm grip without being overpowering, leading to a long, fresh finish with earthy and savory undertones.

The wine is 100% Nebbiolo from vines that average 50 years of age. Vinification involves fermentation with indigenous yeasts for approximately 40 to 45 days using a "submerged cap" technique to ensure a gentle and deep extraction. Following tradition, the wine is aged for two years in large oak casks (rather than small barriques) to preserve the purity of the fruit and the nuances of the terroir.

Accolades

• 93 Points – Decanter (Michaela Morris): "Classy and immediately satisfying... Underlying brightness and tangy acidity keep this vivacious."

• 93 Points – James Suckling: "A fine-tannined and very pretty Barolo... bright finish."

• 93 Points – Wine Spectator: "Focused and accessible... ripe and balanced, with a long, fresh and firm finish."

• 92 Points – Wine Advocate: Noted for its impeccable balance and traditional character.

• 17+/20 – Jancis Robinson: Praised for its impressive minerality and great acidity streamlining the red fruit.

Food Pairing

This Barolo’s firm structure and high acidity make it a natural match for rich, savory dishes:

• Meats: Excellent with roasted lamb, rib-eye steak, or braised beef (brasato).

• Regional Specialities: A classic companion for dishes featuring white truffles, such as tajarin pasta or a buttery mushroom risotto.

• Game: Complements wild boar stew, venison steak, or roasted duck breast with a red wine reduction.

• Cheese: Pairs best with mature cheeses like Castelmagno or Gorgonzola.

Vintage Quality

The 2021 vintage is being hailed by critics as a modern legend, often compared to the iconic 2010 and 2016 years. It is a return to a more "traditional" style, marked by a snowy winter and a long, balanced growing season that allowed for full tannin development while maintaining low pH levels (high acidity). While the 2021 Azelia is approachable in its youth with proper aeration, its concentrated fruit and vibrant backbone suggest a long drinking window, likely peaking between 2026 and 2045.