2013 Barolo Vintage: Impressive Wines that Demand Patience

The 2013 Barolo vintage is impressive.

The 2013 Barolos manifest themselves as comparatively restrained, showcasing classical structure and marked complexity. The wines exude pronounced acidity and tannic rigor, making them ideal candidates for extended cellar maturation.

Here is a quick 2013 vintage report along with my first impressions of what is shaping up to be an excellent vintage.

Overall Assessment:

The 2013 Barolo vintage is impressive and marked for longevity.

Weather:

A slow start with a cool, wet spring led to a delayed bud break. Summer saw periods of moderate heat, and September was warm with temperature variations that favored good phenolic maturity. Relatively unaffected by cataclysmic weather phenomena, although some areas had minor hail incidents.

Harvest:

Late September to Mid-October. A drawn-out harvest season allowed for precise picking decisions, contributing to the vintage's overall complexity and longevity. The ripening calendar closely paralleled vintages like 2001 and 2004, renowned for their aging potential.

Style:

Initial tastings reveal that the 2013s possess finesse yet substantial tannic backbone. The acidity is notable, underscoring the wine's structure and aging capability. The wines demonstrate nuance rather than overt power.

Buying Recommendations:

While the 2013 Barolo vintage might not offer immediate gratification, it is a vintage to acquire for the long-term cellar. Top-tier producers will demand a premium, but the vintage's overall quality ensures rewarding experiences from less illustrious estates as well.

What others are saying about the 2013 Barolo vintage:

Antonio Galloni (Vinous): "An age-worthy vintage that offers complexity and true representation of terroir. A classic vintage for the patient collector."

Kerin O’Keefe (Wine Enthusiast): "A serious vintage with a long life ahead. Approach these wines with the long view."

Jancis Robinson: "Elegant with aging potential. Not a blockbuster, but a vintage that true Nebbiolo lovers will embrace."

Consorzio: "2013 stands as a vintage that brings the essence of Barolo to the forefront, showing excellent structure and potential for aging."

Wine-Searcher: "High acidity and tannins suggest a vintage with the skeleton to age gracefully. Already showing nuanced aromatics."