Fausoni Barbaresco DOCG 2018

Wine Description for Fausoni Barbaresco DOCG 2018 by Sottimano

Colour & Appearance

Luminous ruby red with brilliant reflections – radiantly clear in the glass, as befits a classic Nebbiolo.

Nose

A fascinating interplay of aromas between fruit and spice: morello cherries, preserved wild cherries and fresh raspberry juice meet sandalwood, cloves and frankincense. The spicy complexity evokes a Maghrebi spice bazaar, whilst sun-dried tomatoes, sage and balsamic vinegar add Mediterranean accents. A multi-layered, inviting bouquet.

Palate

Despite the challenging vintage, the Fausoni 2018 displays impressive substance. The fine-meshed tannin framework gives the wine aristocratic contour and athletic structure. Dark fruit with hedonistic depth is carried by invigorating astringency – gripping, firm, complex. Saline minerality and subtle extract provide tactile texture, the tannins command respect without dominating.

Finish

Fruit-driven and tart with concentrated tension and a long, mineral resonance. A wine with long-distance potential.

Terroir & Origin

The Cru Fausoni lies outside Neive and, at just 1.5 hectares, is Sottimano’s smallest single vineyard site. The 45-year-old vines with south-westerly exposure deliver wines of remarkable balance between elegance and concentration – a typical expression of Barbaresco terroir.

Grape Variety & Vinification

100% Nebbiolo, spontaneously fermented with indigenous yeasts. 25 days‘ maceration, followed by 24 months‘ maturation in French oak (15% new wood), including 12 months on the lees. Bottled unfined and unfiltered – biodynamically farmed according to the Sottimano family’s principles.

Food Pairing Suggestions

Saddle of hare in chocolate sauce, turbot under a bone marrow crust with celeriac purée, grilled beetroot with black walnuts, or classically with brasato al Barolo and aged cheeses such as Castelmagno.

Special Features

A Barbaresco that, despite the challenges of the 2018 vintage, displays impressive structure and ageing potential. The modernised vinification since 2014 allows the wines to appear more accessible in their youth, without losing their classic Nebbiolo personality.