The Barolo DOCG production zone covers eleven communes south of the city of Alba in the province of Cuneo in Italy's Piedmont region. Produced entirely from Nebbiolo, Barolo must be aged for a minimum of eighteen months in oak and cannot be released until it is five years old.

Styles of Barolo vary according to winemaking practices, such as size of the oak cask; the wine also varies according to local terroir. For example in La Morra or Verduno, the soils are younger, resulting in less tannic and more floral perfumes, while in communes such as Monforte d'Alba and Serralunga d'Alba, with older soils, the tannins are firmer and not as sleek.

Barolo is known as the "King of Wines and the Wine of Kings," and indeed, it is one of the world's greatest and most iconic red wines. While some bottlings are blend of grapes from several communes, more and more today, producers are crafting single vineyard Barolos from such famous cru as Cannubi, Brunate and Cerequio. These particular Barolo are highly sought after and represent the finest of this area.

As Barolo can age extremely well - as much as 40 or 50 years in a spectacular vintage, the wines are not inexpensive. Look for prices starting at $45 or $50 a bottle, with cry offerings retailling for around $75-$150 a bottle. (Wine/Appellations)