Barolo
Edited by:
Massimo Martini
Introduction
Barolo, a small village in the Langhe in the province of Cuneo, lies in a gentle, harmonious hilly landscape shaped by centuries of viticulture. The village is universally known for the wine that bears its name, the 'king of wines and wine of kings', one of Italy's most renowned oenological excellences. Barolo's history is rooted in ancient times, but it was between the 19th and 20th centuries that the village established itself as a leading wine-growing centre, thanks in part to the farsightedness of figures such as the Marquise Giulia Colbert Falletti. Barolo's charm lies not only in its wine production, but also in its well-preserved historic core, dominated by the Falletti castle, now a museum and cultural venue.
Description
The territory of Barolo lies at an altitude of about 300 metres above sea level, nestled in the heart of the Langhe hills, declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The vineyards, arranged in rows that follow the contours of the slopes, are the dominant feature of the landscape. The temperate climate, with hot summers and cold but not harsh winters, together with the limestone-clay soils, create the ideal conditions for growing Nebbiolo, the basic variety of Barolo DOCG. The remaining woods, small country roads and open views of the surrounding hills complete a picture of rare harmony.
Barolo's origins date back to medieval times, when the village, then called 'Villa Barolium', developed around the castle, a strategic fortification in the defence system of the Marquises of Falletti. Over the centuries, the agricultural and wine vocation has shaped the local economy, which today is almost entirely centred on quality viticulture, with historic and modern wineries exporting all over the world. Alongside the production of Barolo, other excellences such as Barbera and Dolcetto are cultivated, as well as typical products such as hazelnuts and truffles.
The local culture is intrinsically linked to wine: festivals, events and museums celebrate the wine tradition, such as the WiMu - Museo del Vino, which tells the history and culture of this universal beverage, and the Enoteca Regionale del Barolo, a reference point for tastings and promotion. Culinary traditions complete the experience, with iconic dishes such as braised beef with Barolo, tajarin and game, accompanied by typical cheeses from the Langhe.
The village and its surroundings offer numerous opportunities for slow tourism and hiking. Paths through the vineyards, scenic routes and connections with the neighbouring Langhe municipalities allow you to discover an area rich in picturesque views and breathtaking vantage points. In autumn, the grape harvest and the Alba white truffle season attract visitors from all over the world. The hills, dotted with castles and medieval villages, offer an authentic experience combining nature, history and taste.
Information
Area: 5.6 square kilometres
Altitude: 301m
Maximum elevation:
Number of inhabitants: 728
Name in dialect: Bareul
Name in local dialect: Barolo people
Patron Saint: Saint Louis of the French, celebrated on 25 August
Neighbouring towns: Castiglione Falletto, La Morra, Monforte d'Alba, Narzole, Novello
Website: www.comune.barolo.cn.it