Nebbiolo
Big, bold and totally uncompromising. Nebbiolo wines can pack a serious punch, but you don’t need to consider yourself a Mike Tyson to give them ago. It’s true that they are packed full of powerful flavour and tannin but Nebbiolo grapes are considered by many to be one of Italy’s greatest varieties so they are definitely a must try. Barolo and Barbaresco, both made from this variety, are two most respected and most expensive (apologies to the students amongst you) wines in the world.
What am I getting?
Nebbiolo wines are the ultimate con artists. They might look and smell light, with delicate red berry aromas working to pull the wool over you eyes, but as soon as that tannin hits you on the first sip you’ll realise that that is certainly not the case. Strong leather, coffee and earthy flavours are typical, with a real cherry vibe adding some fruit.
What can I drink it with?
The word ‘balance’ comes to mind (I know, that’s a little wishy, washy so I’ll try to be a bit more useful). You need something with flavour, but not so much that it will kill the wonderful Nebbiolo aromas. You want rich, fatty meats that will match the tannin, but nothing too gamey or intense. So think roasted or cured – roast chicken, beef or pork are all great partners for this wine. For the veggies out there, you also need to think rich and savoury, so go with roast root vegetables or even salty pasta dishes.
I want it!
Some bold bottles for a bold choice.
Let’s not go crazy…
Langhe Nebbiolo 2016 De Forville (full, Italy) £11.99 per bottle
All out…
2012 Berry Bros. & Rudd Barolo by Giovanni Rosso, Piedmont (medium-full, Italy) £28.50 per bottle
What am I getting?
Nebbiolo wines are the ultimate con artists. They might look and smell light, with delicate red berry aromas working to pull the wool over you eyes, but as soon as that tannin hits you on the first sip you’ll realise that that is certainly not the case. Strong leather, coffee and earthy flavours are typical, with a real cherry vibe adding some fruit.
What can I drink it with?
The word ‘balance’ comes to mind (I know, that’s a little wishy, washy so I’ll try to be a bit more useful). You need something with flavour, but not so much that it will kill the wonderful Nebbiolo aromas. You want rich, fatty meats that will match the tannin, but nothing too gamey or intense. So think roasted or cured – roast chicken, beef or pork are all great partners for this wine. For the veggies out there, you also need to think rich and savoury, so go with roast root vegetables or even salty pasta dishes.
I want it!
Some bold bottles for a bold choice.
Let’s not go crazy…
Langhe Nebbiolo 2016 De Forville (full, Italy) £11.99 per bottle
All out…
2012 Berry Bros. & Rudd Barolo by Giovanni Rosso, Piedmont (medium-full, Italy) £28.50 per bottle
