Barbaresco

1996 Barbaresco Nebbiolo

Ceretto Barbaresco, crafted from the esteemed Nebbiolo grape, showcases the rich heritage of Italy's Barbaresco region. This 1996 vintage exhibits a deep ruby-red color that invites exploration. On the palate, it presents a medium body with an enchanting balance of bright acidity and notable tannins, creating a captivating structure that enhances its longevity. The fruit intensity is prominent, with delightful notes of dark cherry, plum, and subtle hints of rose petal and tar, characteristic of this varietal. With a well-integrated dryness, Ceretto Barbaresco is a remarkable expression of its terroir, inviting one to savor its complexity and elegance over time.

Tasting notes:

Cherry

Leather

Earth

Flavor profile:

Body Medium

Very Light Full

Fruit Intensity Medium

Low Pronounced

Sweetness Bone Dry

Bone Dry Sweet

Tannin Medium

Low Pronounced

Pairs well with:

Roasted Duck, Braised Lamb Shanks, Roasted Lamb

Region:

Barbaresco

Lying to the east of Barolo, Barbaresco's Nebbiolo wines are similarly bold and tannic, yet tend to be softer and more elegant. Red fruit notes dominate—typically summer berries and fragrant cherries—backed by glorious rose, potpourri, and anise fragrances. You also tend to find a lot less of Barolo's "tar" notes in these wines. The DOCG area is smaller than Barolo, with a slightly milder climate and limestone-based soils. All of this makes its wines a bit more approachable at a younger age. Barbaresco wine must age 26 months before release, with at least nine of those months spent in oak. The DOCG (Denominazione di Origine Controllata e Garantita) classification is the top tier for Italian wine classifications. It controls production methods and wine quality. Strict rules oversee the production of DOCG designated wines, including allowed varietals, winemaking procedures, barrel and bottle aging methods, grape ripeness and limits on grape yields during harvest. DOCG wines are also required to be officially tasted. DOCG bottles have numbered government seals across the neck of the bottle to prevent forgery.

Want to discover wines for you?

Take our quiz to see a selection of wines tailored to your tastes.

Take the Quiz