Barbaresco Riserva DOCG 2013

Wine Description for Barbaresco Riserva DOCG 2013 by Sottimano

Colour & Appearance

Deep ruby red with pomegranate reflections – a classic appearance for aged Nebbiolo from a cooler vintage.

Nose

Patience is rewarded here. After generous aeration, an ambrosial spectrum of aromas unfolds: plums, black cherries and mulberries meet dried figs. The ethereal complexity impresses with bergamot, vetiver, sandalwood and white pepper, complemented by subtle floral notes. A Nebbiolo that demands large glasses.

Palate

An iron fist in a velvet glove: From the first sip, the full power of exquisite, finely calibrated tannins reveals itself. Mouth-filling and structured, with meaty, biting tannins underpinned by crystal-clear fruit. Raw porcini and white pepper lend spicy depth, whilst a shimmering ethereality and formative, ripe acidity give the wine its elegant contours. Powerful, complex and yet of impressive nonchalance.

Finish

Long, precise and sustained – the tannins carry far, the acidity holds everything in perfect balance.

Terroir & Origin

A cuvée from the oldest parcels of the vineyard sites Cottà and Pajorè with south-easterly exposure. The vines, up to 75 years old, delivered perfect grape material despite challenging weather – a cold, wet spring and delayed budbreak – thanks to meticulous vineyard work and green harvesting. The classic 2013 vintage produced powerful, complexly structured wines with intense colour and agile acidity.

Grape Variety & Vinification

100% Nebbiolo. 45 days of skin contact with spontaneous fermentation, followed by three months of daily pigeage. Malolactic fermentation in large French oak barrels, then 36 months of ageing in vessels of varying sizes (25% new wood). Bottled unfiltered and unfined.

Food Pairing Suggestions

Two preparations of venison with Brussels sprouts, quinces and rye bread dumplings, halibut in rye bread crust with red wine beurre or baked aubergine with couscous and labneh.

Special Features

A Barbaresco Riserva with impressive ageing potential – powerfully structured, yet of classical elegance. Sean Connery would have enjoyed it.