Written By Andrii Savchenko

2022/04/08

Nebbiolo is originally from Italy. It is a red grape variety usually used in production of full-bodied red wines. Nebbiolo has medium acidity and good tannic structure. Nebbiolo wines are known for fruity flavors and flower aromas such as anise, roses, cherries, and wild herbs.

Nebbiolo Profile

Where is Nebbiolo from?

Nebbiolo comes from the Old World, from the regions of Barolo and Barbaresco in Piedmont, Italy. Naturally, it is mostly grown on the vineyard of its motherland, but we can also find Nebbiolo in such New World countries as Mexico, Australia, USA, Brazil, and Argentina.

Interesting story about Nebbiolo

Although Nebbiolo is believed to be from the Piedmont region, some DNA analyzes indicate that it may have originated in Lombardy. There are two stories behind the origin of its name: one derived from the Italian word nebbia meaning fog, due to the intense fog in the Piedmont region, and the other one coming from the Italian word nobile meaning noble.

Nebbiolo grape characteristics

It is a late-ripening grape which grows in foggy weather conditions with an Alpine climate and good drainage. This varietal needs protection from the wind and enough heat to build up sufficient sugar level. Nebbiolo prefers limestone and sandy soils.

Nebbiolo Wines

The most popular Nebbiolo-based wines are made in Barolo and Barbaresco. Nebbiolo is commonly blended with grapes such as Barbera, Croatina, or Bonarda Piemontese. There is also another well-known blend of Nebbiolo and Arneis called Barolo Bianco or also known as white Barolo.

What to pair with Nebbiolo?

Pecorino cheese Nebbiolo

For this type of wine, we recommend fatty dishes that help counteract the intense tannin that characterizes Nebbiolo. Try beef fillet or some pork sausages. Do you like cheese? Enjoy Nebbiolo with a risotto with truffles, pizza, manchego, pecorino, fresh burrata and many more options.

Where to find the best Nebbiolo wines

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Barolo

Here are some wineries in Barolo where you can taste the best Nebbiolo wines:

Lange_Uneso_landscapes_barolo_lamora
Read more about Barolo

Langhe

Here are some wineries in Langhe where you can taste the best Nebbiolo wines:

Vineyards of Langhe, Piedmont, UNESCO world heritage
Read more about Langhe

Valtelina

Here are some wineries in Valtelina where you can taste the best Nebbiolo wines:

lombardy, como lake
Read more about Valtelina

Frequently Asked Questions about Nebbiolo

What does Nebbiolo taste like?

Nebiollo wines usually have full body and medium acidity. Their taste profile is described with red berries such as cherry and raspberry.

Is Nebbiolo similar to Pinot Noir?

Both Nebbiolo and Pinot Noir are famous for its red berries notes, however Nebbiolo wines usually can be distinguished by its full body and higher alcohol content.

Is Nebbiolo sweet or dry?

Classic Nebbiolo are dry wines, however it is possible to produce sweet Nebbiolo, for example, in Nebbiolo d'Alba DOC winemakers produce sweet and even sparkling Nebbiolo wines.

Should I decant Nebbiolo?

Old vintages of Nebbiolo could be decanted for up to 1 hour. However, relatively young Nebbiolo might require no more than 10-15 minutes of decanting.

Is Nebbiolo similar to Barolo?

Nebbiolo is the main red grape varietal used in production of red wine in Barolo DOCG - famous wine appellation in Piedmont, Italy.

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