Nebbiolo
Red Grape of Piedmont

Nebbiolo is a red grape variety native to Italy and is considered one of the country's most prestigious and age-worthy grapes. It's most famously associated with the Piedmont region in northwestern Italy, where it produces the renowned Barolo and Barbaresco wines.
Origins: The grape has been cultivated in northeastern Italy's Piedmont region for centuries. The name "Nebbiolo" is believed to be derived from the Italian word "nebbia," which means fog. This is possibly a reference to the fog that often settles over the vineyards in Piedmont in October, just before harvest time.
Taste Profile: Wines made from Nebbiolo are characterized by their elevated tannins and acidity, which makes them highly age-worthy. Aromatically, Nebbiolo wines can offer notes of tar, roses, cherries, raspberries, dried herbs, anise, violets, and sometimes truffles. As they age, they can develop more earthy and tertiary aromas like leather, tobacco, and forest floor.
Appearance: One of the distinctive characteristics of Nebbiolo-based wines is their translucent, brick-orange hue, even when young. This can be surprising given the wine's tannic structure.
Major Growing Regions:
Piedmont, Italy: The most esteemed wines made from Nebbiolo come from the Barolo and Barbaresco appellations. However, it's also grown in other Piedmontese appellations like Gattinara and Roero.
Other Areas: While Nebbiolo's primary home is in Piedmont, it's also grown in other Italian regions and countries, including California, USA, and Australia, though with less international recognition.
Viticulture: Nebbiolo is a somewhat finicky grape to cultivate. It buds early and harvests late, making it susceptible to various vineyard hazards. It also prefers specific soil types, notably the calcareous marls of Piedmont.
Aging Potential: Thanks to their tannin structure and acidity, top-quality Nebbiolo wines, especially those from Barolo and Barbaresco, have significant aging potential. Over time, the wine's tannins mellow, and its complex flavors meld and evolve, making aged Nebbiolo a favorite among wine collectors.
Serving: Given its robust nature, Nebbiolo, especially young versions, can benefit from decanting. Serving temperatures should be slightly cooler than room temperature, around 60-65°F (15-18°C).
Nebbiolo, particularly when transformed into Barolo or Barbaresco, is often referred to as the "king" of Italian wines due to its stature and aging potential. Wine enthusiasts around the world treasure it for its unique flavor profile, ability to reflect terroir, and capacity for long-term aging.