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Nebbiolo's name is believed to be derived from the Italian word "nebbia", which means fog. This is fitting, as the Piedmont region, where it primarily grows, is often blanketed in a thick mist during the harvest season. The grape has a long history in Italy, with written records mentioning Nebbiolo dating back to the 13th century.
The grape is known for its distinct tannins and high acidity, characteristics that give Nebbiolo wines their structure and longevity. The wine's unique aroma profile often encompasses rose petals, tar, cherries, and dried herbs. These nuances can vary depending on the exact location of the vineyard and the winemaking techniques employed.
Though primarily associated with Piedmont, some winemakers in other parts of the world have taken on the challenge of growing Nebbiolo, intrigued by its unique profile and winemaking potential. However, its true home remains the rolling hills of Piedmont, where it expresses its character most authentically.
Nebbiolo is one of the most illustrious Italian red grapes. Although Nebbiolo can produce attractive everyday wines, it is better known for the masterpieces created with it — wines coveted by wine lovers and collectors alike and worthy of any cellar. Nebbiolo is native to Piedmont, in Northern Italy, and it shares the spotlight with a few other red grapes, Barbera and Dolcetto. Still, for structured and age-worthy red wines, Nebbiolo is everyone’s grape of choice. Let’s talk about Nebbiolo and the wines made from it. Nebbiolo might just be one of the most exciting grapes on the planet.
Although grape growers tend Nebbiolo vines worldwide, the vast majority are in Piedmont, specifically around the town of Asti and Alba along the Tanaro River. The most popular Nebbiolo wines are, without a doubt, Barolo and Barbaresco, two DOCG-level wines made exclusively with the grape — authentic collector’s items. Other popular wines made with Nebbiolo include those labelled as Langhe or Roero. The grape also goes by different names in neighbouring regions, where it’s known as Spanna, Picoutener and Chiavennasca. Since Italian winemakers rarely mention the grape varieties to their labels, knowing the essential appellations for Nebbiolo pays off.
Nebbiolo is an exciting varietal that produces pale-coloured red wines with high alcoholic warmth, acidity and plenty of gritty tannins. The wines are full-bodied, bold and age worthy. There aren’t many types of wine made with Nebbiolo, but each appellation using the grape has its classification. Barolo, for example, if aged for thirty-eight months, is labelled as Barolo, but if aged for stunning 62 months, it becomes a Barolo Riserva. We could also classify the types of Nebbiolo depending on their provenance. Although most wine made with the Grape is Piedmontese, there are exciting expressions of the grape made elsewhere, mainly in Australia.
Nebbiolo is a finicky grape that only ripens where the conditions are right. That’s why it is not the most planted despite being the most popular grape in Piedmont. This means Nebbiolo wines are somewhat rare, and with rarity comes a higher price. The reputation of appellations such as Barolo and Barbaresco and the fame of the producers also increases the wine’s price. The best Nebbiolo is expensive, but you can still find affordable expressions of the grape. Expect to pay a premium for memorable, age-worthy wines, but you’ll find adequately priced wines suitable for everyday enjoyment.
For authentic Piedmontese Nebbiolo and other exciting specialties, such as Australian Nebbiolo and even a couple of pink wines made with the grape, browse our selection at World Wine. Your source of fine wine in Australia. The best Nebbiolo wines can be pricey, but there’s immense pleasure in more affordable examples. With Nebbiolo, the more expensive the wine, the more age-worthy. Still, not all wines are meant to age for decades — some are ready to be enjoyed today. That’s Nebbiolo’s magic. The grape is exceptional whether young or well-aged.
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