Barbaresco Red Wine

In the Northwest of Italy is the Piedmont region, which may be regarded by some as the most significant Italian wine region. This is the origin of one of the greatest Italian Red Wines, Barbaresco.
This type of Italian red wine is made from the Nebbiolo grape. The typical style of a Barbaresco Red Wine has aromas of roses or violets with notes of licorice, cherry, truffles and fennel. As the wine ages, it can develop smoky notes and more earthy flavors like leather and tar.  Barbaresco is more approachable in youth and is usually more affordable than Barolo, but top examples still do command a high price.

DOCG regulations state that Barbaresco wines must be aged for a minimum of 2 years (at least 1 year in oak) prior to release and aged for at least 4 years to be considered a riserva. The Red Wines must have a minimum 12.5% alcohol level though most wines are closer to 13.5%. The best made examples of Barbarescos should be aged for 5-10 years, as they are extremely tannic and tight in their youth, and some even continue to drink well even after 20 years.