Fontanafredda Barolo La Rosa 1996

Vintage: 1996

Complex and mature red wine, likely a well-aged Pinot Noir or a traditional Nebbiolo-based wine such as Barolo or Barbaresco. The appearance of medium intensity, ruby color with a garnet rim, along with sediment and legs, suggests a wine that has had some time to develop in the bottle.

The pronounced intensity of aromas on the nose, including mushrooms, truffle, forest floor, old leather, and dark red fruits like plums and cherries, indicate a wine that has undergone significant aging, allowing tertiary aromas to develop. These characteristics are typical of older wines with some bottle age.

On the palate, the wine appears to have a balanced profile, with medium to high acidity and alcohol levels, along with integrated tannins, suggesting a wine that has softened with age but still retains structure. The flavors of savory mushroom broth, earthiness, hints of soy, leather, and dark fruits with spice notes are consistent with the aromas detected on the nose, indicating a harmonious and complex wine.

The long, savory finish with mushroomy notes further underscores the wine’s maturity and complexity. Overall, it’s a sophisticated and elegant wine that would pair well with hearty dishes like roasted meats or aged cheeses.