The grape variety Nebbiolo

Nebbiolo is a noble, complex grape variety most famously cultivated in Italy’s Piedmont region, particularly in Barolo and Barbaresco. The grape produces wines known for their remarkable depth and aging potential. Aromatically, Nebbiolo is distinguished by its expressive bouquet, revealing notes of rose petals, violets, tar, cherry, raspberries, dried herbs, earth, and hints of truffle. On the palate, Nebbiolo wines are typically medium to full-bodied, featuring high acidity and firm, pronounced tannins that soften elegantly with age.

Classic Nebbiolo styles range from the powerful, intensely structured Barolo to the more graceful, floral Barbaresco. While Piedmont remains its spiritual home, Nebbiolo is also grown in lesser quantities in regions such as Valtellina (Lombardy) and parts of the New World. Winemaking styles vary from traditional, emphasizing extended aging in large oak casks, to modern, where shorter maceration and smaller barrels result in a more approachable style.

Nebbiolo pairs exceptionally well with richly flavored dishes. Optimal food matches include braised meats, truffle risotto, wild mushroom dishes, roasted game, and mature cheeses, which all complement Nebbiolo’s robust tannins and complex aromatics.