Basarin Barbaresco DOCG 2021

Wine Description for Basarin Barbaresco DOCG 2021 by Sottimano

Colour & Appearance

Brilliant, luminous cherry-red with even colouration – a classic Nebbiolo red of striking clarity.

Nose

Here the full complexity of Nebbiolo reveals itself: sour cherry, blackcurrant and raspberry form merely the aromatic foundation. The true magic lies in the profound spice – juniper, black pepper, cubeb pepper and allspice meet rosehip tea, dried fig and cranberry. Fine roasted notes, cold smoke and earthy forest floor lend the wine its characteristic depth. Dried herbs such as marjoram, tarragon and savory round off the multi-layered aromatic profile.

Palate

The Basarin is the most subtle and elegant in Andrea Sottimano’s portfolio – nothing is obtrusive, everything is in perfect balance. The extract-rich fruit builds immense pressure, carried by tightly woven, powerful tannins and a vibrant acidity. Meaty and firm in structure, yet suffused with brilliantly clear fruit and cool minerality. The interplay of tannin, fruit, acidity, bitterness and minerality appears flawless. Juicy, invigorating, with rapid drinking flow and a silky mouthfeel – Bruce Lee rather than Schwarzenegger, finesse rather than raw power.

Finish

Long and fruity-ethereal with dominant notes of juniper, allspice and dried herbs. The pronounced acidity stimulates salivation and leaves an open-hearted, joyful impression.

Terroir & Origin

The three-hectare vineyard site Basarin in Neive was acquired by Sottimano in 2014 and immediately converted to organic and biodynamic viticulture. The roughly 50-year-old vines yield concentrated, terroir-driven fruit at an average of 40 hl/ha.

Grape Variety & Vinification

100% Nebbiolo, destemmed and left on the skins for up to 60 days. Fermentation in open stainless steel vats with regular punch-downs of the cap. Maturation since 2020 in large, slightly conical botti for approximately 24 months.

Food Pairing Suggestions

Braised lamb shank with fresh peas and rosemary potatoes, cassoulet of beans, bacon and pointed cabbage or pan-fried duck breast with beetroot and horseradish sauce.

Special Features

A Barbaresco of great elegance and drinking pleasure, which is already accessible when young but definitely has the potential for extended cellaring. The perfect balance of all components makes it the most subtle wine in Sottimano’s range.