Giuseppe Rinaldi – the Barolo icon from Piedmont
Giuseppe Rinaldi is one of the most legendary winemakers in Barolo, known for his uncompromising approach to traditional vinification and terroir-driven wines. His name is synonymous with classic Piedmontese wine, where long maceration, natural fermentation and aging in large old barrels are key to depth, elegance and complexity. Today, his daughter Marta Rinaldi carries on the legacy, continuing the family philosophy of producing authentic wines that defy modern trends and celebrate the finesse of the Nebbiolo grape.
🏡 The story behind Giuseppe Rinaldi
Giuseppe “Beppe” Rinaldi (1927-2018) was one of Barolo’s most respected and charismatic winemakers. Known for his skepticism towards modernization, his wines were a direct contrast to the more fruit-driven and barrel-driven “modern Barolos” that emerged in the 1990s. The Rinaldi family has been growing wine in Barolo since the 1890s and the winery is located in the heart of the region with parcels in some of the most prestigious cru vineyards. After Beppe Rinaldi’s death, his daughter Marta Rinaldi took over the operation and continues the family philosophy of natural vinification, long fermentation times and the use of large Slavonian oak barrels.
🍇 Vinstil and Vinifikation
Giuseppe Rinaldi wines are created with a deep respect for terroir and tradition. They are known for their tight structure, intense acidity and a finesse that only improves with ageing. Vinification philosophy:
✅ Natural fermentation with wild yeast cells
✅ Long maceration (up to 40-50 days for Barolo)
✅ No small barriques – only large, used Slavonian barrels
✅ Minimal intervention – no filtration or clarification This results in wines that require time but reward patience with amazing complexity and elegance. 🍷 The Most Iconic Wines from Giuseppe Rinaldi
🍷 Barolo DOCG
Rinaldi’s Barolos are among the most sought-after in the world and are produced in two different blends: 1️⃣ Barolo Brunate – A powerful and structured wine from one of the best cru sites in La Morra and Barolo. Spicy, floral and with huge ageing potential.
2️⃣ Barolo Tre Tine – A blend of several parcels (Cannubi, Ravera and Le Coste) with a more elegant and fresh style than Brunate. Aging potential: 15-30 years. 🍷 Langhe Nebbiolo DOC
A younger, fresher version of Barolo, but still with depth and complexity. Perfect for those who want to experience Rinaldi’s style without waiting decades. 🍷 Barbera d’Alba
A vibrant, juicy wine with dark berries, acidity and a slightly spicy character. 🍷 Dolcetto d’Alba
A classic, uncomplicated Dolcetto with fresh fruit, light tannins and high drinkability.
🍽 Food pairing for Rinaldi’s Wines
✅ Truffle dishes – Barolo and white truffle from Alba are an iconic combination. ✅ Game and red meat – Perfect for osso buco, brasato and grilled steaks. ✅ Aged cheeses – Parmigiano Reggiano, Pecorino or Castelmagno. ✅ Piedmont classics – Tajarin with butter and sage or brasato al Barolo. Serving: Decanting is recommended for Barolo (at least 2-3 hours). Serving temperature 16-18°C.