I wanted a birthyear bottle this year, but options were limited so I took a gamble on a 1981 Barolo Riserva (Terre del Barolo).

Tasting notes? Straight vinegar.

Cut my losses and opened a Double Diamond as a consolation prize.

by SB4_Camaro

8 Comments

  1. JAmBuRriT0

    That’s a shame. You’d think a Barolo that age would have a little something left in the tank.

  2. Chardoneigh

    That’s always a let down, I’m sorry!

    1981 wasn’t a great year in Piedmont, unfortunately. Much cooler with lots of rain and I imagine the wines are extremely hit or miss from that vintage. My birth year was also pretty tough for most major wine regions so whenever/if ever I try to find something I know it’s going to be a difficult hunt.

  3. CoteDeMugunghwa

    Ha did you cut the foil with that Inkosi? Definitely the most expensive foil cutter I’ve seen so far but I respect it.

  4. tobydill

    1981 is a weird year for wine, it’s my birth year also so I’ve drunk a few decent bottles. I’d look out for…

    Chateau Musar
    Beaucastel
    Krug Vintage
    Vieux Chateau Certan (a freak for that particular year in Bordeaux)
    D’Yquem (not the best vintage tbh)

  5. Some-Wine-Guy-802

    ‘81 is indeed tricky. Best wines are Rioja and Port I’m afraid.

  6. VAhotfingers

    Damn! Inkosi, with the carbon fiber scales. 🥵