Nebbiolo is the most important grape variety in Piedmont, the father of all the noblest native expressions. Its tradition has very ancient origins and is linked to the Piedmontese territory, but its ability to express itself in a heroic manner in the steep terraces of Valtellina and, to a lesser extent, also in Valle d'Aosta and Sardinia should not be overlooked. The personality of the vine, which gives rise to elegant and structured wines, pleasantly tannic, is now appreciated and recognised all over the world, but its diffusion is limited due to its difficult environmental adaptability. It is a particular and demanding variety that finds its ideal habitat in the south-eastern exposure of the Langhe hillsides. Here excellent bottles are born, where time is the best partner allowing it to reach its full potential.
Nebbiolo is the most important grape variety in Piedmont, the father of all the noblest native expressions. Its tradition has very ancient origins and is linked to the Piedmontese territory, but its ability to express itself in a heroic manner in the steep terraces of Valtellina and, to a lesser extent, also in Valle d'Aosta and Sardinia should not be overlooked. The personality of the vine, which gives rise to elegant and structured wines, pleasantly tannic, is now appreciated and recognised all over the world, but its diffusion is limited due to its difficult environmental adaptability. It is a particular and demanding variety that finds its ideal habitat in the south-eastern exposure of the Langhe hillsides. Here excellent bottles are born, where time is the best partner allowing it to reach its full potential.
The first historical references to Nebbiolo date back to writings in 1200, but it was probably known already in ancient times: Pliny the Elder mentioned it in one of his works. The grape probably owes its name to the thick autumn mists that envelop the hills of the Langhe, its place of origin. According to this theory, the colour of the grapes is "clouded" or better "annebbiato" in Italian, by the mist on the hills. It was then with the birth of modern Barolo, through the collaboration of various figures on the local scene, including Camillo Benso di Cavour, that this vine became inseparably linked to its territory of origin.
From a genetic point of view, four sub-types are known, of which Lampia is the most common and Michet reveals more notable qualities and more intense aromas, from which a more concentrated red wine is made. The type's sensitivity to soil structure means that it adapts best to soils rich in calcareous sediment and marl, but it also grows well on sandy surfaces. From these terroirs come unique and inimitable wines, characterised by good structure and typical elegance.
Nebbiolo wine has a moderate colouring ability, resulting in a liquid that is fairly light in colour. The method of production has a direct influence on this aspect: the so-called "traditional" approach, i.e. long periods of maceration and refinement in large wooden barrels, will produce a red wine with lighter and more transparent tones; if a more modern approach is adopted, a greater extraction of colour will be obtained and there will be less transparency.
The intensity of the aroma is a typical feature. The aromas are more intact and tend towards fruitiness if the period in wood is not prolonged. Floral and sometimes spicy aromas complete its aromatic range. The tannic component makes it unmistakable on the palate, accompanied by a distinct warm touch due to the alcohol content and a pleasant freshness.
Generally the main food pairings are with first courses and savoury meat dishes, in some cases with game. In the case of younger, fresher and lighter versions, more straightforward dishes such as savoury first courses, sliced meats and cured meats may also be preferred.
In Piedmont, there are different denominations that represent this grape variety. Interpretations of considerable importance that stand as representatives of almost all the major wine-growing areas of the region, among which the Barolo, Barberesco and Roero areas stand out. The Nebbiolo DOC includes important examples from the area of Alba and the Langhe, now also a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Among the most renowned bottles are those from the Valmaggiore and Occhetti crus, recognised for their unmistakable qualities, while the Gaja Nebbiolo stands out as one of the monumental wines of the area. There are also two designations in the Asti area, demonstrating the special connection that this variety has with the other side of the Tanaro river.
In addition, the Nebbiolo DOC includes further relevant examples in other areas of the region, such as the Saluzzo area, some areas of Asti and the areas at the foot of the first mountains of Piedmont. In some cases, the territorial connection is emphasised more through more identifiable names, such as Gattinara and Ghemme, or Boca. Continuing with the most significant renditions of the vine, we cannot fail to mention the Valtellina area, with its typical terraces, symbol of an arduous heroic viticulture, and capable of showing a different personality of this vine.
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