From: Verduno, Piedmont, Italy
Varietal: Nebbiolo
About: The foundational story of Castello di Verduno takes us back to the early 16th century in the village of Verduno, located in Italy's Piedmont region. Initially built by the noble Busca family, the castle was a sentinel over the Langhe and the Tanaro River valley, now a prime wine country. Ownership transitioned through notable hands, including the House of Savoy. King Carlo Alberto of Sardinia notably contributed to the castle's winemaking legacy in the 19th century by initiating modern viticultural practices.
In 1838, King Carlo Alberto acquired the castle, delegating the management of the estate and its cellar to General Carlo Staglieno, a renowned oenologist. It was here that Paolo Francesco Staglieno, under the guidance of Giulia Falletti Colbert, undertook the pioneering vinification of the Nebbiolo grape, laying the groundwork for what is now known as Barolo. The castle also served as a retreat for Oddone, the son of Vittorio Emanuele II and Maria Adelaide. Battling health issues, Oddone devoted his time to studying and cataloging fossil finds from the nearby "Rocche Patarine," enriching the cultural and scientific legacy of the estate.
The late 19th century saw the Burlotto family taking the reins, marking the beginning of a new era of dedication to the craft of winemaking, rooted deeply in the traditions and innovations that define Piedmontese wine.
Taste & Critical Acclaim: On the nose, an inviting blend of forest berry, fresh mint, and dog rose aromas. The palate continues with flavors of fleshy Morello cherry and star anise, intertwined with vibrant acidity that elevates a core of red berry fruits, accentuated by nuances of kirsch, white flowers, mint, baking spices, and hints of chalk with supple tannins.
“The 2020 Barbaresco is a very pretty, forward wine that will drink well right out of the gate. Succulent fruit and mid-weight structure give the 2020 tons of immediacy. The straight Barbaresco is not the last word of complexity, but the 2020 is delicious and very easy to drink. Floral and spice overtones punctuate the vibrant finish. The straight Barbaresco is the under the radar gem in this range. Vineyard sites are Faset and Ronchi. What a delightful wine it is.” 92 Points by Vinous Media
Pairing: For Barbaresco wine pairings, seek balance with medium to full-bodied dishes like rich meats, hearty pasta, and aged cheeses that match the wine's complexity and structure. Fatty, protein-rich foods soften their tannins, enhancing fruitiness. Choose flavors that contrast or complement the wine, including earthy and herbal notes. Opt for regional Piedmontese dishes for natural harmony.
Roasted Lamb seasoned with rosemary and garlic or Duck Breast with Cherry Sauce are perfect examples of traditional pairing. Cheese enthusiasts will find pairing this vintage with Aged Parmesan or Pecorino. These cheeses' nutty, savory depths are the ideal match for the wine's complexity. Each sip after a bite of cheese reveals new layers of flavor, making this pairing a favorite for those who appreciate the finer nuances of wine and cheese together. Another good pairing is wild mushroom tagliatelle. The earthy, umami-rich mushrooms paired with the aromatic profile of the wine, especially its forest berry and mint notes,. The simplicity of a Margherita pizza offers a delightful contrast to the wine's complexity. This pairing epitomizes the Italian Nebbiolo’s love of classic, simple pizza.
Mushroom Stroganoff
By Hetty Lui McKinnon
