Davide Fregonese Prapo Barolo 2019 75 Cl

This is the kind of Barolo that turns dinner into a main event. The 2019 vintage from the Prapo vineyard in Serralunga d’Alba comes in with classic Nebbiolo grip, layered aromatics, and that unmistakable “don’t rush me” structure that Barolo fans chase.

If you’ve ever had a red wine that smells amazing but falls apart on the palate, Barolo is the antidote. Prapo is a serious hillside cru in Serralunga, known for wines with backbone. Translation, you get concentration, tannins that feel firm and mouth-coating, and flavours that keep unfolding the longer you hang out with it.

Expect a mix of fruit, savoury edges, and earthy depth. It starts with dark cherry and raspberry, then swings into dried rose petals, anise, and a little orange peel brightness. With air, you’ll start noticing the deeper stuff, think tar, cedar, and a hint of mushroomy truffle vibe.

• Appearance: Deep garnet with a brick-tinged rim, clear and glossy in the glass
• Nose: Dried rose, cherry compote, anise, tobacco leaf, cedar, and a touch of tar
• Taste: Dark cherry and raspberry up front, then licorice, spice, and savoury earth, with high acidity and firm, grippy tannins
• Body: Full-bodied
• Finish: Long and drying, with lingering rose, spice, and earthy notes

Why you’ll care, beyond the romance of the label, is how it behaves with food. That bright acidity cuts through rich sauces, fatty cuts, and long-cooked dishes, while the tannins latch onto protein and make everything taste more “complete.” It’s a bottle that rewards a proper meal and a bit of patience.

It’s also a great pick if you like your wines with a storyline as they open up. Early on, it’s all structure and intensity. Give it time and it gets more aromatic and nuanced, the floral and savoury notes start to take the lead, and the whole thing feels more knit together.

Fun Fact: Prapo is one of Serralunga d’Alba’s most respected vineyard sites, and wines from this zone are known for being the more powerful, tannic side of Barolo.