Skip to main content

Red + White Wines Go Green Part 3

T
he Nebbiolo grapes that comprises collectible and more drink now variety of Barolos -in all of its chewy deliciousness---is made in the biodynamic-organic "slow wine" wineries in the Piedmont area of Italy.
From the south east region -from the historic glorious single vineyards located in Monforte d'Alba-family owned Pecchenino produces a few Nebbiolo wines. Pictured above-the accessible + value priced medium bodied Barolo like Langhe Nebbiolo Briccco Ravera 2015-fermented in stainless steel, aged in Austrian oak (2 years)-followed by 6 months in the bottle. Deep ruby color, ripe berry flavors, licorice, florals-roses+violets, and mint hints. Fresh balanced sip-pretty much ready now or next year-to drink. ($28)
The Bussia Barolo DOCG 2013-back label pictured below---is worthy of seeking out and aged according to Barolo DOCG (38 months) requirements. ($75).
Ruby red in color-and made in a traditional production style with a long fermentation with native yeasts and a long maceration on the skins, Some Barolos are more drink ready now-by aging in some combo of breathable oxygen porous new French oak barrels or toasted---but Pecchenino's Barolo is aged in Slavonean oak casts. Delivers on the intense red berry flavors....with romantic hits and aftertaste of licorice and spices-full bodied and great structure... velvety tannins.
Pairs well with aged cheeses, hearty pastas+ risotto, grilled-roasted meats...robust foods.


Bordeaux reds from France-are similarly worshipped and collected as Barolos. And also similar-there are many great drinking wines value priced that would surprise -even the French.

Château Virecourt Conté 2015 is priced at around $15-$17/bottle in the USA-and even as low as 5 Euros in France-so we were told. Produced certified Agriculture Biologyique.

At a recent Bordeaux wine tasting-of selections all priced under $50-and aimed at -restaurant sommeliers...looking for by the glass and bottles options...we thought this Bordeaux Supérieur blend (95% Merlot, 5% Cabernet Franc) a bargain worth seeking out with red berry + floral flavors-ready to drink now-with age potential too.