Virna Barolo Sarmassa 2019

The Barolo Sarmassa 2019 by Virna Borgogno comes from the historic Sarmassa cru in the village of Barolo. The vineyard, planted in 1970–1980, sits at 250–260 meters with south-facing exposure and calcareous soils with fine sand.
This is a structured, age-worthy Nebbiolo fermented traditionally and aged in a combination of large Slavonian oak casks and 500L French oak barrels, followed by stainless steel and bottle refinement.

🍷 Tasting Notes (Based on Expert Reviews & Typical Cru Profile)

Aroma: red cherry, dried herbs, balsamic tones, tobacco, crushed stone, subtle oak spice.
Palate: full-bodied and structured; firm but refined tannins; lively acidity; red fruit layered with earthy and savory notes.
Finish: long, persistent, youthful — built for ageing.

(Note: sensory notes vary by bottle; these are consistent with public critic reviews.)

🍽 Perfect Pairings

• Braised or roasted beef

• Game dishes (venison, boar)

• Truffle pasta

• Aged cheeses (Parmigiano, Castelmagno)

• Rich mushroom dishes

📍 Origin

• Region: Barolo DOCG, Piedmont, Italy

• Cru: Sarmassa (village of Barolo)

• Producer: Virna Borgogno

• Vintage: 2019

• Grape: 100% Nebbiolo (Lampia & Michet)

• Soils: calcareous with fine sand & white marl

• Vines planted: 1970–1980

• Exposure: South-facing

• Altitude: 250–260 m

📦 Technical Details (Verified)

• Fermentation: destemming + maceration 15–20 days at up to 29–31°C

• Aging:

  • ~18 months in Slavonian oak casks + 500L French oak barrels

  • stainless steel resting

  • minimum 6 months bottle ageing before release

• Alcohol: typically around 14–14.5% ABV (varies by source; not officially published)

• Serving Temp: 17–18°C

• Decanting: recommended

• Ageing Potential: drink from 2023 onwards; capable of extended cellaring

💎 Why We Selected It

A classic expression of the Sarmassa cru — structured, elegant, and traditionally vinified.
With its tannic backbone, depth, and ageing potential, the 2019 Sarmassa stands out as one of Virna’s most serious and collectible Barolo wines.