All about Nebbiolo

Appearance

  • Color:Typically exhibit a deep ruby to garnet color when young, transitioning to a brick or orange hue as they age.
  • Opacity: Medium opacity, often lighter in color compared to other full-bodied red wines, which can be misleading given its robust flavor and structure.

Aroma

  • Primary Aromas: Cherry, rose, and violet are the hallmark primary aromas of Nebbiolo, often accompanied by red fruit notes like raspberry and strawberry.
  • Secondary Aromas: Earthy elements such as tar, leather, and truffles are common, reflecting the wine’s aging in wood and its complex vinification process.
  • Tertiary Aromas: With age, Nebbiolo develops more nuanced aromas such as dried herbs, tobacco, anise, and cedar, adding to its depth and complexity.

Flavor Profile

  • Fruit Flavors: Black cherry, plum, and raspberry are prominent, along with lighter red fruits in younger wines.
  • Other Flavors: Notes of tar, licorice, truffles, and earthy tones like mushrooms and graphite. Nebbiolo is also known for its floral undertones, particularly rose petals.
  • Oak Influence: Nebbiolo is often aged in large Slavonian oak casks or sometimes French oak barrels, which can add subtle spice, vanilla, or toasty notes without overpowering the primary flavors.

Structure

  • Body: Medium to full-bodied, offering a rich and textured mouthfeel.
  • Tannins: High tannin content, contributing to a dry, grippy sensation on the palate, which softens with age.
  • Acidity: Medium to high acidity, providing freshness and balance to the wine’s intense flavors.
  • Alcohol: Between 13.5% and 15%

Join the club

Get this varietal often & more delivered to your doorstep when you join our wine club!

Classic Series Wine Club Membership
Classic Series Membership
From $39
From $39
classic wine of the month club subscription box
Vintners Series Membership
From $42
From $42
Limited Series Wine Club Membership
Limited Series Membership
From $52
From $52

Pairings for Nebbiolo

Mushroom Risotto or Truffle Dishes
Mushroom Risotto or Truffle Dishes

Mushroom Risotto or Truffle Dishes

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Osso Buco
Osso Buco

Osso Buco

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Aged Cheeses and Charcuterie
Aged Cheeses and Charcuterie

Aged Cheeses and Charcuterie

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