Barbaresco
Barbaresco is often referred to as the little brother of Barolo. Yes, both wines come from the Italian Piedmont region and are made from the Nebbiolo grape variety. But that's where the similarities end. Barbaresco has a unique spectrum of aromas, ranging from dark fruits, roses, violets, tobacco and spices to truffles.
The best wines from Barbaresco
Barbaresco is often referred to as the little brother of Barolo. Yes, both wines come from the Italian Piedmont region and are made from the Nebbiolo grape variety. But that's where the similarities end.
Where does Barbaresco come from?
The Barbaresco region, which covers just 700 hectares, begins east of the Piedmont town of Alba and extends to the municipalities of Treiso, Neive, Alba and the eponymous village of Barbaresco. The area is very rural and has few inhabitants. Thanks to the hilly landscape, it is very idyllic here. The vineyards are usually found on the gentle slopes at an altitude between 180 and 350 metres. This means they are lower than the vineyards in the Barolo area.
Like Barolo, Barbaresco was awarded DOC status in 1966, giving it a protected designation of origin. It was upgraded to DOCG on 3 October 1980 – also at the same time as Barolo. Incidentally, while the latter is often referred to as the ‘king of wines’ behind closed doors, Barbaresco is often called the ‘queen of wines’. Both, by the way, for a similar reason. In the mid-19th century, Barbaresco was one of the favourite wines of the royal house of Savoy, which made the wine so famous and helped it to achieve great renown. However, interest in Barbaresco waned after the royal house was no longer in power, while Barolo continued its career. This was due not least to its greater availability and higher longevity.
Which grape is in a Barbaresco?
Like the Barolo, the Barbaresco is made exclusively from Nebbiolo. The ageing process is also very similar. A Barbaresco must rest in wooden barrels for two years before it can be sold. For a Barbaresco Riserva, it is even five years. These rules have a good reason. This is because Nebbiolo is a grape variety that brings a lot of tannins into the wine. These are already somewhat mitigated by the aging in wooden barrels, so that the wine can be enjoyed earlier. Nevertheless, long-lasting wines are produced from this grape per se – this also applies to the Barbaresco.
What is the difference between Barolo and Barbaresco?
The same grape, very similar aging: Now you might think that Barolo and Barbaresco should actually be the same. But that is not quite true. The first reason for the difference between the two Piedmont wines can be found in the soil. The soil structure in the Barbaresco area differs significantly from that in the Barolo area: there is more copper and zinc in the calcareous marl soils than in the manganese-rich soils of the Barolo area, which leads to a different spectrum of aromas. The individual zones of the four Barbaresco municipalities also show some major differences: the wines from Neive in the eastern part of the zone sometimes resemble Barolo, have tannins and firmness, and are often aged as Riserva wines. Others – especially those from high altitudes – are characterised by their great elegance.
The second difference is rooted in the reputation. Barolo was there first. It was only when it became more and more famous in the 19th century that the neighbouring communities also started to work with the Nebbiolo grape variety. This marked the birth of Barbaresco. And although the king also liked this red wine, it was always somehow overshadowed by the great Barolo. This only changed in the mid-1980s, when the world wanted Nebbiolo wines that were more accessible and also more elegant. While the Barolo region was modernising its own wine, the great moment of Barbaresco finally arrived. The red wine became more and more well-known and popular everywhere. Since then, it has become a force to be reckoned with alongside Barolo and is no longer overshadowed by it. This is not least thanks to prestigious producers such as Gaja, Giacosa, Ceretto, Rivella, Tildin, Martinenga, Rabajà, Montestefano, Pora and Asili or La Spinetta. But the great Barbaresco modernist who really put the red wine on the world stage is undoubtedly Angelo Gaja.
What does Barbaresco taste like?
It is no wonder that Barbaresco has long since established itself alongside Barolo. This red wine has a unique spectrum of aromas, ranging from dark fruits, roses, violets, tobacco and spices to truffles. However, when drunk young, this Nebbiolo wine can be quite harsh. It tends to overwhelm the impatient connoisseur with its high tannin and acidity. After a few years of maturing, it becomes more accessible and radiates a harmonious and elegant character. Its light colour is striking and contrasts surprisingly with its full body and alcohol content.
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What food goes well with a Barbaresco?
Due to the fine truffle notes in the wine, all imaginable truffle dishes are an ideal pairing for a Barbaresco. Especially if the truffle comes from the neighbouring town of Alba. However, a well-grilled steak is just as delicious with a Barbaresco as traditional Italian stews such as stufato or peposo.
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