To the east of Barolo in the Langhe region lies a stretch of Nebbiolo wines known as Barbaresco. Though these grapes border those of the Barolo region, they grow in soil that is richer in nutrients, resulting in a less tannic wine. Barbaresco wines are also required to be aged for only 2 years (compared to 3 years for Barolo). The taste of Barbaresco is similar to Barolo, with hints of roses and vanilla, and a good vintage for Barolo tends to also be a good year for neighboring Barbaresco. In fact, whereas Barolo is known as the King of Wines, Italians refer to Barbaresco as the Queen of Wines. Here at the Barolo Bro, we think of Barbaresco as Barolo’s… well, bro. It’s like Barolo’s often times lighter, more free spirited friend.
Many of the wineries that make Barolo also have vines in Barbaresco, and it’s often possible to taste both wines on the same visit. It makes for a nice change of pace when too many tannic Barolos leave your tongue feeling a bit roughshod. Like Barolo, Barbaresco goes perfectly with game meats and pastas in heavy tomato sauces. It doesn’t go with Asian food quite as well as Barolo does, since it doesn’t have quite the same bold profile that pairs perfectly with soy sauce. I personally enjoy drinking Barbaresco with some light summer barbeques, when I’m grilling a quick lamb chop or steak for a few friends. It’s lightness pairs really well with some lightly seasoned meat on a nice summer afternoon. It’s a more relaxed wine that always feels like it’s meant to be consumed outdoors on nice sunny days. With the Fourth of July coming up and barbeques lighting up all over the US, maybe it’s time to mix it up from Barolo and grab a bottle of Barbaresco to share with friends and family!
