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Nebbiolo d’Alba

22 hours ago2 min read

Nebbiolo d’Alba

By Master Chef Gianluca Deiana Abis

1. History

Nebbiolo d’Alba DOC is a red wine from Piedmont, produced exclusively from the Nebbiolo grape. It originates in the hills surrounding the town of Alba, an area renowned for its exceptional terroir and long winemaking tradition. Nebbiolo, one of Italy’s most revered varieties, takes its name from nebbia (fog), a reference to the mist that blankets the region’s vineyards during the harvest season. While Barolo and Barbaresco may be more widely known, Nebbiolo d’Alba offers a more approachable and versatile expression of the grape, often showcasing a fresher, more youthful style. This makes it a popular choice for those seeking the elegance of Nebbiolo without the long aging requirements and higher price points of its more famous counterparts.

2. Pairing

Nebbiolo d’Alba’s moderate tannins, bright acidity, and signature aromas of roses, red cherries, and earthy spices make it an excellent partner for many traditional Piedmontese dishes.

Vitello Tonnato: The wine’s acidity and red fruit notes complement the creamy tuna sauce and delicate veal slices, balancing the dish’s richness.
Tajarin with White Truffle: Its delicate floral aromas and subtle earthiness highlight the luxurious, earthy flavor of truffles.
Agnolotti del Plin: The wine’s freshness and gentle tannins harmonize with the savory meat stuffing and light butter or sage sauce.
Porcini Mushroom Risotto: Nebbiolo d’Alba’s earthy notes pair beautifully with the umami richness of porcini mushrooms.
Aged Tomino or Mild Fontina Cheese: These cheeses’ creamy texture and gentle flavors find a perfect partner in the wine’s refined structure and fruity profile.

3. The Top Wineries

Prunotto: Known for crafting Nebbiolo d’Alba wines that are elegant, balanced, and expressive of the region’s terroir.
Pio Cesare: A historic producer whose Nebbiolo d’Alba captures the grape’s classic floral and red fruit character in a refined, approachable style.
Marchesi di Barolo: While famous for Barolo, this producer also creates excellent Nebbiolo d’Alba, highlighting the grape’s versatility and the quality of the surrounding vineyards.

4. The Notes of Master Chef Gianluca Deiana Abis

Nebbiolo d’Alba is a wine that never fails to impress me with its charm and versatility. It’s more than just a “younger sibling” to Barolo and Barbaresco—it’s a wine that stands on its own, offering the classic Nebbiolo elegance with a more approachable, everyday appeal. I love how it pairs so effortlessly with the flavors of Piedmontese cuisine, elevating simple, traditional dishes into something truly special. For me, Nebbiolo d’Alba represents the beauty of Italian winemaking: a perfect balance of history, terroir, and craftsmanship that can be enjoyed in any setting.