Renato Ratti 2009 Barolo Marcenasco
In 1934 Renato Ratti is born. After studying enology in Alba he “emigrates” to Brazil where he is put in charge of the production of Vermouths and sparkling wines for Cinzano of Sao Paolo. The experiences gained operating in such a vast, and challenging country as Brazil will prove fundamental in the development of an innovative outlook, one that will characterize his later work back in the hills of Piedmont’s Langhe region. In 1965 Renato Ratti returns to Piedmont and buys his first vineyard for the production of Barolo: a small plot in the historical zone of Marcenasco, right below the Abbey of L’Annunziata (Our Lady of the Annunciation) at La Morra. In the ancient (14th Century) Abbey, he creates his first single vineyard (cru) Marcenasco Barolo. In 1969, his nephew Massimo Martinelli, he too an enologist, joins the company and together, they perfect a technique of vinification, maturation and refinement for their Marcenasco Barolo.
Opening a bottle of this 2009 classic Barolo of 100% Nebbiolo grapes, I decanted it for 45 minutes first. The Barolo was aged in Oak for 2 years! Finally pouring a glass I noticed a rich deep Ruby red color with a big bouquet of abundant black fruit, blackberries, ripe black cherries, leather with a touch of cacao and gentle spice, pepper and earthy notes, a Barolo which will only get better. This wine has an excellent structure and balance with gritty, yet approachable. tannins and was a delight to drink now. I picked up a few more of these gems to put down in my cellar for a later date as I believe this Barolo will age well for years to come. At around $40 this is a great value.
Cheers!