By Tony Margiotta
Introduction
Barbaresco, often overshadowed by its more famous counterpart Barolo, is a gem in the world of Italian wines. Made from the Nebbiolo grape, Barbaresco offers elegance, complexity, and a unique expression of the Piedmont region. Whether you're a seasoned wine enthusiast or new to Italian wines, this guide will provide everything you need to know about Barbaresco—from its rich history to the best ways to enjoy it.
A Brief History of Barbaresco Wine
Barbaresco’s roots stretch back centuries, but it wasn’t until the late 19th century that it began to gain recognition as a distinct and prestigious wine. The modern era of Barbaresco can be credited to Domizio Cavazza, who founded the Barbaresco cooperative in 1894. Cavazza’s efforts helped establish Barbaresco as a wine of its own merit, distinct from Barolo, which was already renowned.
Unlike Barolo, which was traditionally produced by large estates, Barbaresco has a history of being made by small, family-run wineries. This artisanal approach has allowed for a wide variety of styles and expressions, making Barbaresco a wine that is both diverse and distinctive.
Barbaresco vs. Barolo: Understanding the Differences
Both Barbaresco and Barolo are made from the Nebbiolo grape and come from the Piedmont region, but there are key differences between the two. Barbaresco is generally considered more elegant and approachable at a younger age, while Barolo is often more powerful and requires longer aging to soften its tannins. This difference is largely due to the terroir—Barbaresco’s vineyards are typically located at lower altitudes with warmer climates, resulting in wines that are lighter in body but still complex and nuanced.
The Terroir of Barbaresco: What Makes It Unique
Barbaresco comes from the Langhe area of Piedmont, specifically from the villages of Barbaresco, Neive, and Treiso, as well as a small part of Alba. The region's unique microclimate, with its warmer temperatures and lower altitude compared to Barolo, allows the Nebbiolo grape to ripen earlier, producing wines that are often softer and more aromatic. The soil composition, rich in limestone and clay, also contributes to Barbaresco’s characteristic elegance and finesse.
The Winemaking Process: From Vine to Glass
The production of Barbaresco follows strict guidelines to ensure quality. The grapes are typically harvested in October, after which they undergo a fermentation process that lasts for about two weeks. The wine is then aged in oak barrels for at least two years, with some producers opting for longer aging periods to develop more complex flavors.
The result is a wine with a bright ruby color, high acidity, and firm tannins, balanced by flavors of cherry, rose, licorice, and earthy undertones. Barbaresco’s aging potential is significant, with well-made examples capable of evolving beautifully over 10 to 20 years or more.
How to Choose a Great Barbaresco
1. Know the Producers
Barbaresco is produced by a mix of established names and smaller, boutique wineries. Some of the most renowned producers include Gaja, Bruno Giacosa, and Produttori del Barbaresco. These producers tend to be more on the mass-production category of Barbaresco wines today. Don’t overlook lesser-known boutique wineries, as they often offer excellent value and unique expressions of Barbaresco like the Battaglio Family Estate.
2. Understanding the Label
Italian wine labels can be intricate, but with a few key pointers, you can decipher them easily. Look for the DOCG (Denominazione di Origine Controllata e Garantita) designation, which guarantees that the wine meets the highest standards of quality and authenticity. Also, check if the label mentions a specific vineyard, such as Rabajà, Asili or Serragrilli, which are known for producing exceptional Barbaresco.
3. Consider the Vintage
Vintage plays a crucial role in the quality of Barbaresco. Recent outstanding vintages include 2010, 2013, 2015, 2016, and 2019. These years offered ideal weather conditions, leading to well-balanced, age-worthy wines. Aged Barbaresco (10+ years) develops more complex, tertiary flavors, while younger vintages will offer more fresh fruit and floral notes.
Top Barbaresco Producers to Know
- Gaja: Perhaps the most famous name in Barbaresco, Gaja is known for producing some of the finest wines in the region. Their single-vineyard Barbarescos, such as Costa Russi and Sorì Tildìn, are highly sought after.
- Bruno Giacosa: A traditionalist at heart, Bruno Giacosa’s wines are known for their purity and elegance. His Barbaresco Asili is considered a benchmark for the region.
- Ceretto: Known for their modern approach, Ceretto produces wines that are both approachable in their youth and capable of aging gracefully. Their Bricco Asili is a standout.
- Battaglio: Out of all the producers mentioned, the Battaglio Estate is the only under-the-radar on the list. A small family winery, Battaglio is making some of the most gorgeous Barbaresco in the region today. They only produce around 1,000-2,000 bottles of Barbaresco and around 300 bottles of the Barbaresco Riserva single vineyard. Not to be missed!
Barbaresco Tasting Notes: What to Expect
Barbaresco is a wine of elegance and complexity. When tasting, expect to encounter:
- Aromas: Rose petals, cherries, tar, licorice, and truffles are common aromas in Barbaresco. Some wines also exhibit notes of tobacco, leather, and spices as they age.
- Flavors: On the palate, Barbaresco offers flavors of red fruit, such as cherry and raspberry, along with earthy notes of mushroom and forest floor. The tannins are firm but can be quite smooth with age.
- Structure: High acidity and tannins give Barbaresco its backbone, making it an excellent candidate for aging. The best examples balance these elements with rich, layered flavors.
How to Store Barbaresco
Proper storage is essential for preserving the quality of your Barbaresco. Here are some tips:
- Temperature: Store Barbaresco at a consistent temperature of around 55°F (13°C).
- Humidity: Maintain a humidity level of 70-75% to keep the corks from drying out.
- Position: Lay the bottles on their side to keep the corks moist.
- Environment: Store Barbaresco in a dark, vibration-free environment to prevent the wine from aging prematurely.
Perfect Pairings: What to Eat with Barbaresco
Barbaresco’s structure and complexity make it a versatile wine for food pairings. Here are some suggestions:
- Red Meat: Pair with beef tenderloin, lamb, or venison for a classic match.
- Pasta with Truffles: The earthy flavors of truffles complement Barbaresco’s complexity.
- Aged Cheeses: Try with Parmigiano-Reggiano, Pecorino, or Gorgonzola for a rich, savory pairing.
- Game Birds: Duck or quail, especially when roasted or prepared with rich sauces, are excellent partners.
- Mushroom Dishes: The earthy notes of mushrooms enhance the wine's depth.
FAQs
How long should I decant Barbaresco before drinking?
Decanting Barbaresco for 1-2 hours is recommended to allow the wine to open up and express its full range of flavors.
What is the ideal serving temperature for Barbaresco?
Serve Barbaresco slightly below room temperature, around 60°F to 64°F, to enhance its aromas and flavors.
Can Barbaresco be enjoyed young?
Yes, while Barbaresco benefits from aging, younger vintages (3-5 years) offer a fresh, fruit-forward profile that can be very enjoyable.
Is Barbaresco a good investment wine?
Absolutely. High-quality Barbaresco, especially from top producers and excellent vintages, can appreciate in value over time.
What makes Barbaresco different from Barolo?
Barbaresco is typically more elegant and approachable at a younger age compared to Barolo, which is often more robust and requires longer aging.
Can I store Barbaresco for long-term aging?
Yes, Barbaresco can age gracefully for 10-20 years or more, depending on the vintage and producer.
Conclusion
Barbaresco is a wine that embodies the elegance and complexity of the Nebbiolo grape, offering a unique expression of the Piedmont region. Whether you’re exploring the world of Italian wines for the first time or expanding your collection, Barbaresco is a must-try. With its rich history, diverse styles, and incredible aging potential, Barbaresco stands out as one of Italy’s finest wines. Use this guide to make informed choices when buying, storing, and enjoying Barbaresco, and discover why this wine has earned a place among the world’s greats. Cheers!