1996 Piedmont: A retrospective
Michaela Morris looks back at 1996 Barolo and Barbaresco...
The Barbaresco wine region is ranked as one of the greatest in Italy.
Along with Barolo, Barbaresco produces world class wines from the Nebbiolo grape in the Piedmont region.
Based around the towns of Barbaresco, Neive, Treiso and San Rocco Seno d’Elvio, the region lies to the east of Barolo and consists of 65 individual crus (MGAs).
Quick link Barbaresco wine reviews | Latest releases: 2015 & Riserva 2013
The majority of this sub-region’s best crus are located south of the town of Barbaresco towards the hamlet of Tre Stelle and Treiso. Its slightly cooler microclimate guarantees wines of both body and finesse.
Generally speaking, these are the most complete and balanced wines of the four communes.
Neive is divided into a lower-lying modern town and a picturesque medieval hamlet.
Generally speaking, Neive produces the most powerful and structured wines. It’s historically also famous for outstanding Dolcetto.
Treiso is one of the few areas in the Langhe where forests still grow tall and temperatures are noticeably cooler, especially at night. The best crus are all located to the north and west of the town.
Generally speaking, Treiso produces the most graceful and refined wines.
The least known of the four communes, the Seno d’Elvio is actually a stream.
Generally speaking, the wines of San Rocco Seno d’Elvio offer much earlier accessibility but less complexity.