Barolo is often referred to as the wine of the kings. Since it is such a big, powerful, inviting red wine, few can debate the truth in this statement. Although we may occasionally celebrate life with a sip from the king’s goblet, most of us may find that this exquisite wine that is fit for a king is also fit for HIS wallet.

Well commoners don’t despair! Included in the many regulations for making Barolo is the core ingredient: The Nebbiolo Grape. Fortunately for us, this grape is used to make wonderful wines that are affordable without the co signature of a royal family member.

For those not familiar with nebbiolo or even Barolo, it is not indicative of the Italian terroir that we often associate with the Mediterranean climate. As a matter of fact, Italians often consider the nebbiolo wines comparative to the French Cabernets. They have fuller bodies, robust aromas and leave a smooth pleasing taste in your mouth.

The nebbiolo grape is grown, almost exclusively, in the Northern Italian wine region of Piedmont. This grape thrives in cooler climates. In fact, the word nebbiolo is derived from the Italian word nebbia which means fog. The fog and mist in the Piedmont region allow for the nebbiolo grape to stay cool and be harvested late in the fall. This cooler climate and late yielding contribute to the wonderful complexities of its aromas and flavors.

There are a few DOCs that produce wines with a required 100% of nebbiolo grapes. This requirement has earned them a reputation of being “Baby Barolos”. Wine-making rules, such as aging, are not quite as stringent as the Barolos regulations, but the commanding nebbiolo grape still helps create magnificent wines.

Alba, a town in Piedmont, is known around the world for two things: white truffles and the nebbiolo grape. Langhe, located south of Alba, is nestled in the Italian Alps. Its lush green area filled with sloped hillsides and valleys, is also the perfect home for the Nebbiolo. Both of these regions are home to DOCs that produce excellent examples of the commoner’s baby Barolo: Nebbiolo d’Alba and Langhe Nebbiolo.

So why are they considered “baby Barolos”? Considering they are not aged as long as Barolo’s so they do display a slightly lighter body, thus the “baby” aspect. However, their aromas of tar, cherries, licorice, and floral notes definitely will make one reminiscent of a young Barolo.

These lovely young wines pair well with spicy Italian Meats (cold cuts/sausage, etc), strong cheeses (such as aged parmesean), and even poultry.

The Daisywine pick for June is the 2003, Icardi “Surisjvan” Nebbiolo (Langhe). However, if your local wine shop doesn’t stock this specific one, just ask for a Nebbiolo from either of the DOCs mentioned above, and let me know if you find a treasure worthy for a king!

Ciao!

Tags: Barolo, Italian wine, Nebbiolo grape, Northern Italy, red wine, wine making

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