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Produttori del Barbaresco, Barbaresco 2009

Produttori del Barbaresco, Barbaresco 2009

Well, I think we hit a home run with our B&B– Bolognese and Barbaresco– pairing. These two were meant to be together. Yes, as Greg mentioned Barbaresco is considered to be the queen of Italian wine, but at the risk of sounding sexist I believe the subtle and wily feminine power of this expression of Nebbiolo is just what Greg’s hearty, rustic Bolognese calls for. A more manly Barolo might cause a clash of heavyweights. This elegant beauty sports a great perfume, has great taste, is both light and deeply complex and is not to be ignored.

Produttori del Barbaresco Barbaresco has been made by a 52 member cooperative since 1958. During that time the coop has grown to cover about a sixth of the vineyards in the Barbaresco DOCG appellation, producing over a half million bottles of wine. Their produttori is consistently high in quality and an excellent value from vintage to vintage.

Now to the 2009 Produttori del Barbaresco Barbaresco. A bright clear ruby in the glass. Scents of rose petal mix with red plum and cherry cough syrup in the nose, complemented by fennel, forest floor and spicy notes. Not much of the “tar” one usually finds in classic Nebbiolo aromas. But the heady bouquet of fruit and earth compel you to go ahead and taste. On the palate you are rewarded with tart, dried cherry above all, delivered on powerful silky-smooth tannins. Cherry cola? Raspberry preserves? Tea?

The concentration of flavor and purity of fruit, strong acidity and delightfully long finish might distract you from taking a bite of the Bolognese. But you really should remember to eat. Greg’s rich sauce is only enhanced by the relief offered by tart acidity and bright red fruit. So keep an eye out for the next vintage of Produttori del Barbaresco Barbaresco. You never know when you might need a yin to your yang. KEN

Price $30

Also pairs well with roast meats, barbecue, game birds, hearty pasta, strong cheeses

  • Category Red Wine
  • Varietal Nebbiolo
  • Region Piedmont Italy