2021 Produttori del Barbaresco Barbaresco

For several months we have been singing the praises of the 2021 vintage in Italy, but a singular stand out is the 2021 Produttori del Barbaresco.

Earlier this week, Monica Larner, of the Wine Advocate, validated what we have been saying all along. Using words like “epic” “classic expression of Nebbiolo” “a vintage for collectors” to award the 95+ point score for the Domaines Barbaresco. I have stressed it before, and I’ll say it again. Nebbiolo lovers are going to want to stock up on this one.

At under $40 there is not a better wine in the category!

The warming climate in this northern Italian appellation has been beneficial for Barolo and Barbaresco in particular as they are easily reaching maturity, resulting in wines with a softer edge, which are more appealing in their youth.

Each year, Produttori’s Barbaresco is derived from 9 of the finest crus in the Langhe vineyards; i.e. Rabaja, Asili, Ovello. It's precisely this ability to draw fruit from these stellar vineyards that puts this wine in a class by itself.

Produttori’s approach is very traditional. Fermentation lasts between 18 and 21 days, then aging occurs for up to 3 years in old Slovenian oak barrels. You cannot argue with the quality of the wine produced over the last several years.

In a vintage like 2021, there is a perfect balance between ripeness and the underlying acidity. Ripe nebbiolo is a beautiful thing. It’s transparent, focused, with multiple layers of flavor revealing themselves upon each sip.

Ideally, this wine needs a few more years in the cellar, but anyone that loves nebbiolo is going to want to have plenty around. It will reward you for years to come.

Please trust me, not all Barbaresco is created equal!