2005 Pio Cesare “Ornato” Barolo

I’ve had this 2005 Barolo since about 2012 or so. Opened in January 2025. First time this has happened to me: upon opening, wine was exploding with volatile acidity (VA). Smelled of woodsy vinegar. Color was pale brown rather than brick and seemed a little murky. Palate was thin and closed. I worried it was past its prime. Regardless, I decanted, put it back in the bottle and stoppered with the original cork (cork was pristine btw). After one hour I returned to it expecting to have to dump it out. Instead, not only had the VA blown off but the color had darkened to a deep garnet. The palate was classic: everything you’d expect from a great quality Barolo with almost two decades of age. Cherry, cranberry, rose petal, tea leaf. Tannins were present but incredibly soft and fine. Food pairing: black truffle beef sausage with trumpet mushroom risotto.