I have fallen down the slippery slope into a rabbit hole that is known as “birth year wine”. My daughter was born 2016 and I want to procure bottles now for her life in the future. Given Bordeaux can age gracefully and strength of the 2016 vintage, I assumed I would go Bordeaux. However, I am hearing tid bits that 2016 was also a good Barolo vintage, and it should be possible to find options here as well.
My primary question is whether (i) 2016 Barolo can age as well as Bordeaux, and (ii) whether the QPR / price of Barolo will be less than Bordeaux.
My plan is to buy 5 case worth of wine (although in a variety of formats) for an eventual wedding at a ~$55/bottle price (I am eyeing the 2016 Lagrange), and then another 2 mixed cases of higher end bottles at ~$150/750ml (in a mix of 750ml and magnums). I will also do a half case or full case of port.
Just as I was about to commit to this plan, I stepped back and said… what about Barolo? 2016 may have been a good vintage. I enjoy Barolo and am not as experienced in Bordeaux. We may even be able to swing a trip to Piedmont in 2021 for my 40th where the 2016s ?may still be procurable? – good Photo opps with the kid!
But this visit to Piedmont may not happen… 2016s may not be a good vintage… prices may be too high… and the 2016 Bordeaux won’t be available in a variety of formats if I wait a long time longer…
So I’m wondering what to do. Any/all advice appreciated!