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Summary

What is modern Barolo? In this fascinating deep-dive, Piemonte specialist Nelson Pari joins us in the WSG studio to answer exactly that — and the answer might surprise you. From the myth of Barolo as “the Burgundy of Italy” to its hard-fought climb out of agricultural obscurity (once dubbed La Malora, or “the worst of all evils”), Nelson peels back the layers of history, climate, and marketing to explain how today's Barolo is more about place than grape.

We explore the rise of MGA (Menzione Geografica Aggiuntiva) designations, commune-level identity, and how soil, altitude, and even hail patterns are changing how we understand — and taste — this iconic wine. Nelson also breaks down the differences between Barolo’s 11 communes, offering memorable tasting markers (tar, grease, strawberry, and even mechanic-shop oil!) that make each one distinct.

A must-watch for all you Barolo lovers!

About the Speaker

Nelson Pari is an Italian wine expert with a deep affinity for the Piedmont region, particularly Barolo. A former musician, he transitioned into wine through 67 Pall Mall in London, where he helped lead groundbreaking Barolo MGA tastings. Today, he is the Italian Wine Buyer at SWIG and a WSET educator, curating and teaching about distinctive regional wines. Pari also co-founded Verticale, a magazine focused on the aging potential of Italian wines. Frequently visiting the Langhe, he’s known for his nuanced appreciation of Piedmontese terroir and tradition. Named to Fortune Italia’s “40 Under 40,” Pari is a rising authority on Italian wine, celebrated for making Piedmont’s complexity accessible to a global audience.