Nebbiolo Explained
Nebbiolo might not be the most famous grape on your dinner table, but among wine lovers, it’s legendary. This Italian red grape is known for making some of the most complex, age-worthy wines out there. What makes it fascinating is the contrast: its colour is often pale, but don’t be fooled—it packs serious intensity. Expect delicate, floral aromas on the nose, then bold tannins and firm structure on the palate.
Most people immediately think of northern Italy’s Piedmont when they hear “Nebbiolo,” but winemakers around the globe are giving it a try, revealing new sides of this tricky yet rewarding grape. Because it reflects its surroundings (or “terroir”) so clearly, it’s both a challenge for winemakers and a treat for anyone drinking it.
Piedmont: The Heart of Nebbiolo
Piedmont is Nebbiolo’s true home, especially in the legendary regions of Barolo and Barbaresco. In Barolo—the so-called “king of wines”—you’ll find power, structure, and layers of flavours like tar, roses, dried cherries, and truffle that can evolve beautifully for decades. Barbaresco, often called Barolo’s more approachable sibling, delivers similar aromatic fireworks but with gentler tannins and a touch more elegance.
Outside of those big names, areas like Langhe and Roero produce more affordable Nebbiolo that still carry the grape’s signature floral and earthy personality.
Elio Sandri, Langhe Nebbiolo 2022
This organic Nebbiolo hails from the Langhe region in Piemonte, made by Cascina Disa Elio Sandri from vines planted in 1937—blending heritage with terroir. With aromas of liquorice, wild cherry, and dark fruits, it’s fermented using natural yeasts for 21-28 days with submerged caps, then aged up to seven years in Slavonian oak—resulting in a wine of depth, balance, and elegance. Elio Sandri’s ultra-traditional, terroir-driven style, minimal sulphur, and gentle process produce wines of poise and longevity. Definitely one to enjoy while prices remain accessible.
Lombardy: Alpine Elegance
Head to Lombardy’s Valtellina region and Nebbiolo (called Chiavennasca here) shows a whole new side. Grown on steep, terraced vineyards in the mountains, these wines are lighter but super aromatic, with red berry, violet, and herbal notes. Some winemakers even use partially dried grapes to make Sforzato di Valtellina, a richer, more concentrated style that still keeps Nebbiolo’s freshness.
Dirupi, Ole 2023
From the steep terraced vineyards of Valtellina in Lombardy, Dirupi crafts this expressive Chiavennasca (Nebbiolo) with precision and energy. Farmed organically on dramatic alpine slopes, the fruit carries a mountain freshness that sets it apart from its Piemontese cousins. Fermented with native yeasts and minimal intervention, Ole shows vibrant notes of red currant, pomegranate, rose petals, and a touch of alpine herbs. The wine is aged in stainless steel to preserve purity and lift, resulting in a bright, agile expression with fine tannins and a mineral edge. Dirupi’s artisanal approach—small production, meticulous vineyard work, and a focus on transparency—makes Ole a beautifully drinkable yet distinctive take on Nebbiolo.
These mountain wines are often easier to drink young compared to their Piedmontese cousins, though the best examples can still age gracefully.
North America: A Work in Progress
In the U.S., Nebbiolo is a bit of a niche project, but it’s gaining traction. California, especially Santa Barbara and Mendocino, offers long growing seasons that let the grape ripen slowly—crucial for Nebbiolo. The wines often echo their Italian heritage with red fruit, roses, and leather, but they lean into California’s sunny, riper style.
Winemakers are still figuring out the best vineyard sites and techniques, so styles vary widely. A standout example is Palmina’s 2020 Nebbiolo from Santa Barbara County, which shows strawberry, dried herbs, and spice with firm tannins—a clear nod to Italy but with California’s generous fruit.
South America and Beyond
In Argentina’s Patagonia, cool-climate vineyards give Nebbiolo a chance to shine. The wines here tend to be bright and fresh, with red cherry and floral notes that feel very Piedmont-inspired but with a New World vibrancy.
You’ll also find experimental plantings in places like Australia and New Zealand, where adventurous winemakers are exploring what this finicky grape can do.
In Short: Nebbiolo may be stubborn in the vineyard, but when it works, it delivers wines that are both powerful and graceful. Whether from Piedmont’s rolling hills, Lombardy’s mountain terraces, or sunny California, this grape always has a story to tell. Have a look at our website to find out more.