Wine of the Week: A bona fide Barolo for under $45

2009 Comm. G.B. Burlotto Barolo

From a Barolo house founded way back in 1850 comes this fine 2009 Barolo. No single vineyard. No special aging. And yet at a time when Barolo prices edge ever upward, it’s hard to believe this classic example of straightforward Barolo comes in at less than $45. A splurge, certainly, but it’s a good bottle for any Nebbiolo d’Alba drinkers who want to upgrade to a bona fide Barolo. It has all the virtues of Barolo — silken texture, taste of violets, cherries and earth, and ripe but firm tannins.

This is a bottle to reserve for a big steak or chop, a hearty stew or a roast bird.

Region: Piedmont, Italy

Price: From $40 to $45.

Style: Rich and earthy

What it Goes With: steak, chops, stews, roasts

Where to Find it: DomaineLA in Los Angeles (323) 932-0280 (2008); Hi-Time Wine Cellars in Costa Mesa (949) 650-8463; and Wine Exchange in Orange (800) 76WINEX.

irene.virbila@latimes.com