- Last updated on June 30, 2023
Our Best Barbaresco Selection
- Best Overall: Cascina Baricchi Rose delle Casasse Barbaresco Riserva 2016
- Best Value: Castello di Neive Barbaresco Santo Stefano 2019
- Best under $40: Ronchi Barbaresco 2019
- Best under $40 runner-up: Pasquale Pelissero Bricco San Giuliano Barbaresco 2018
- Best under $40 2nd runner-up: Villadoria Barbaresco 2018
- Best under $50: Prunotto Barbaresco 2018
- Best under $60: Produttori del Barbaresco Barbaresco
- Best under $60 runner-up: Produttori del Barbaresco Barbaresco
- Best under $70: Ceretto Barbaresco 2017
- Best under $70 runner-up: Giuseppe Cortese Barbaresco Rabaja 2019
- Best under $80: Moccagatta Bric Balin Barbaresco 2016
- Best under $90: Sottimano Barbaresco Pajore 2019
- Best under $90 runner-up: Prunotto Bric Turot Barbaresco 2015
- Best Luxury: Bruno Giacosa Falletto Barbaresco Asili 2019
- Best Luxury runner-up: Pio Cesare Il Bricco Barbaresco 2018
- Best Splurge: Gaja Sorì Tildìn 2017
16 Best Barbaresco Reviewed
Find below the reviews for our wine selection of the 16 Best Barbaresco so that you have all the info you need to pick what’s best for you.
Vivino’s tips: Ranks #2 in Top 25 Italian Barbaresco wines in New York right nowÂ
Region: Italy, Piemonte
Tasting notes: Red Fruit, Earth, Tobacco, Tar, Rose.
Cascina Baricchi Rose delle Casasse Barbaresco Riserva is an outstanding wine that showcases the best of the Nebbiolo grape variety.
Its complex aromas, intense flavors, and excellent balance make it a wine that is both sophisticated and approachable.
The top four things that make this wine stands out vs its peers are:
Terroir: The vineyard where the grapes are grown and the winemaking process can greatly influence the flavor profile of the wine.
Cascina Baricchi Rose delle Casasse Barbaresco Riserva is made from Nebbiolo grapes grown in the Barbaresco DOCG area, which is known for producing high-quality wines with complex flavors and aromas.
Aging: The wine is aged for four years, with at least one 9 months in oak barrels.
This extended aging process can help to develop complex flavors and aromas and create a smoother and more refined texture.
Winemaking technique: The winemaking techniques used by the producer can also have an impact on the wine’s quality.
Cascina Baricchi Rose delle Casasse Barbaresco Riserva is made using traditional winemaking methods, such as extended maceration and fermentation with natural yeasts.
This approach can help to preserve the natural characteristics of the grapes and result in a wine with greater complexity and depth of flavor.
- Priced competitively against its peers, so you’ll save a few $10s and still get an outstanding wine.
Its high quality and versatility make it a great choice for special occasions or for those who appreciate the best in Italian wine.
Read our full review here.
Wine’s tips: Consistently rated over 94 points.
Region: Italy, Piemonte
Tasting notes: Raspberry, Black Cherry, Plum, Licorice, Tobacco, Oak.
Castello di Neive Barbaresco Santo Stefano 2019 is an exceptional wine that truly captures the essence of the Nebbiolo grape and the unique terroir of the Piedmont region.
With its rich aromas of red fruit and spices, and its complex flavors of cherry, licorice, and tobacco, this wine is a true expression of the art of winemaking.
But what really sets this wine apart is its balance and elegance.
The three things that make this wine the best value wine are
- It’s balanced and elegant, despite its full body and powerfull tannins, which means it’ll be a great pleasure to drink.
- Ageing: It aged for 2 years in oak barrels and in bottle, resulting in a complex and elegant wine and can age for another 10 years.
- It offers great value for your money, it’s one of the best Barbaresco in this price range and it’s $50+ cheaper than Cascina Baricchi Riserva 2016.
It is a testament to the dedication and expertise of the winemakers at Castello di Neive, and a true treasure of the Piedmont region.
Don’t miss the opportunity to experience this exceptional Barbaresco for yourself!
Read our full review here.
Wine’s tips: Consistently rated over 90+ points.
Region: Italy, Piemonte
Tasting notes: Raspberry, Cherry, Plum, Smoke, Tar, Tobacco, Oak.
Ronchi Barbaresco is a classic example of the Nebbiolo grape, offering a rich and complex wine that is sure to impress.
Its intense aromas and flavors, combined with its firm tannins and long finish, make it an ideal choice for special occasions and meals.
While it may require some aging to fully appreciate its complexity, it is a wine that is sure to reward those who are patient enough to wait.
The three things that make this wine the best budget are:
- It’s rich and layered, which means you’ll get intense aromas and flavors that will evolve as you drink it.
- It ages well up to 10 years so that you can store it and enjoy over time.
- It cost ~$34 (
) yes, it’s unbelievable for the quality you get.
) yes, it’s unbelievable for the quality you get.If you’re looking for a full-bodied, richly flavored wine that showcases the best of Piedmont, Ronchi Barbaresco is definitely worth a try.
Read our full review here.
Wine’s tips: Consistently rated over 90 points
Region: Italy, Piemonte
Tasting notes: Ripe Cherry, Strawberry, Plum, Earthy, Rose, Violet.
Pasquale Pelissero Bricco San Giuliano Barbaresco is a wine that captures the essence of the Nebbiolo grape grown in the renowned Barbaresco DOCG region.
Its intense and complex aromas, full-bodied character, and lingering finish make it a perfect pairing for hearty meat dishes and aged cheeses.
Whether you enjoy it now or let it age and develop further, this wine is a testament to the beauty and complexity of Nebbiolo.
Read our full review here.
Region: Italy, Piemonte
Tasting notes: Cherry, Raspberry, Plum, Leather, Earthy, Violet.
Villadoria Barbaresco is a wine that perfectly captures the essence of the Nebbiolo grape variety.
This complex and elegant wine boasts intense aromas, a full-bodied palate, and a long finish, making it a perfect accompaniment to hearty meat dishes and aged cheeses.
Whether you enjoy it now or let it age and develop further, this wine offers great value for your money.
Read our full review here.
Vivino’s tips: 90 points by Wine Enthusiast (2018 Vintage)
Region: Italy, Piemonte
Tasting notes: Cherry, Raspberry, Plum, Oak, Licorice, Pepper, Violet.
Prunotto Barbaresco is a fine example of the Nebbiolo grape, grown in the Barbaresco DOCG region.
Its rich and complex bouquet, along with its full-bodied flavor and long finish, make it the perfect accompaniment for meat dishes and aged cheeses.
Additionally, this wine has the potential to age well and gain even more complexity over time.
Read our full review here.
Wine’s tips: Consistently rated over 93 points.
Region: Italy, Piemonte
Tasting notes: Raspberry, Cherry, Plum, Cinnamon, Tobacco.
Produttori del Barbaresco Barbaresco is a classic and well-balanced wine that is a great representation of the Barbaresco region.
The wine is complex and full-bodied, with flavors of red fruit, herbs, and spices that are characteristic of the Nebbiolo grape.
The wine has firm tannins and refreshing acidity, which give it structure and balance.
This wine is a great option for those looking for a high-quality Italian red wine that can be enjoyed with food or on its own.
The Produttori del Barbaresco cooperative is a top-notch winery that produces some of the best wines in the region, and this Barbaresco is no exception.
It’s a must-try for any wine enthusiast.
Read our full review here.
Wine’s tips: Consistently rated over 93 points.
Region: Italy, Piemonte
Tasting notes: Raspberry, Cherry, Plum, Cinnamon, Tobacco.
Massolino Barbaresco is a magnificent wine that highlights the beauty of the Nebbiolo grape, grown in the Barbaresco DOCG area.
Its aromas are complex and intense, while its body is full and rich, with a long and satisfying finish.
This wine is perfect for pairing with hearty meat dishes and aged cheeses, and it has the potential to age gracefully for years.
Read our full review here.
Wine’s tips: Scores consistently over 90 points
Region: Italy, Piemonte
Tasting notes: Raspberry, Cherry, Plum, Smoke, Tar, Tobacco, Oak.
Ceretto Barbaresco is a sophisticated and refined wine that represents the best of the Nebbiolo grapes grown in the Barbaresco DOCG area.
Its aromas are intense and complex, its body is full and rich, and its finish is long and satisfying.
Pair this wine with hearty meat dishes and aged cheeses for an unforgettable culinary experience.
Read our full review here.
Vivino’s tips: Featured in Top 25 Italian Barbaresco wines in New York right nowÂ
Region: Italy, Piemonte
Tasting notes: Raspberry, Cherry, Plum, Smoke, Tar, Tobacco, Oak.
Giuseppe Cortese Barbaresco Rabaja is a wine of great complexity and refinement that truly captures the essence of Nebbiolo grapes grown in the Barbaresco DOCG area.
Its deep and complex aromas, full-bodied character, and lingering finish make it a perfect match for hearty meat dishes and aged cheeses.
Whether enjoyed today or aged to perfection, this wine is a true gem that should not be missed.
Read our full review here.
Vivino’s tips: Good value for money. Similar wines usually cost 62% more.
Region: Italy, Piemonte
Tasting notes: Raspberry, Cherry, Plum, Smoke, Tar, Tobacco, Oak.
Moccagatta Bric Balin Barbaresco is a stunning example of the Nebbiolo grape, cultivated in the Barbaresco DOCG area.
This wine is characterized by its intricate bouquet, full-bodied palate, and long finish.
It pairs perfectly with meat dishes and aged cheeses, and its aging potential makes it a wine to savor for years to come.
Read our full review here.
Wine’s tips: Consistently rated over 93 points.
Region: Italy, Piemonte
Tasting notes: Cherry, Strawberry, Rose, Tobacco, Cinnamon.
Sottimano Barbaresco Pajore is a sophisticated and elegant wine that exemplifies the very best of the Nebbiolo grape, grown in the prestigious Barbaresco DOCG region.
Its rich and complex aromas, full-bodied palate, and long finish make it an ideal choice to accompany hearty meat dishes and aged cheeses.
With the ability to age and develop further complexity, this wine is truly a treasure for any lover of Nebbiolo.
Read our full review here.
Wine’s tips: Consistently rated over 91 points.
Region: Italy, Piemonte
Tasting notes: Cherry, Strawberry, Rose, Tobacco, Cinnamon.
Prunotto Bric Turot Barbaresco is a complex and elegant wine that showcases the best of Nebbiolo grapes grown in the Barbaresco DOCG area.
Its intense and complex aromas, full-bodied palate, and long finish make it an ideal wine to pair with hearty meat dishes and aged cheeses.
While it can be enjoyed now, it also has the potential to age and develop further complexity over the years.
If you’re a fan of Nebbiolo wines, Prunotto Bric Turot Barbaresco is definitely worth trying.
Read our full review here.
Wine’s tips: 98 points by James Suckling (2019 Vintage)
Region: Italy, Piemonte
Tasting notes: Cherry, Strawberry, Roses, Leather, Licorice, Oak, Tobacco.
Bruno Giacosa Barbaresco Asili is a wine of exceptional quality, produced by one of the most renowned winemakers in Piedmont.
Its intense and complex aromas, full-bodied palate, and long finish make it an ideal wine to pair with hearty meat dishes and aged cheeses.
While it can be enjoyed now, it also has the potential to age and develop further complexity over the years.
If you’re a fan of Nebbiolo wines, Bruno Giacosa Barbaresco Asili is a must try.
Read our full review here.
Wine’s tips: 95 points by James Suckling (2018 Vintage)
Region: Italy, Piemonte
Tasting notes: Cherry, Strawberry, Roses, Leather, Licorice, Oak, Tobacco.
Pio Cesare Il Bricco Barbaresco is a masterpiece of winemaking that represents the best of the Barbaresco DOCG area.
Its complex aromas, full-bodied palate, and long finish make it a perfect choice to accompany meat-based dishes and aged cheeses.
While it can be enjoyed now, it also has the potential to age and develop further complexity over the years.
If you’re a fan of Nebbiolo wines, Pio Cesare Il Bricco Barbaresco is definitely worth the investment.
Read our full review here.
Vivino’s tips: 96 points by Jeff Leve (2007 Vintage)
Region: Italy, Piemonte
Tasting notes: Cherry, Strawberry, Roses, Leather, Licorice, Oak, Tobacco.
Gaja Sorì Tildìn is an exceptional wine that truly showcases the quality and character of Barbaresco.
With its complex and layered flavor profile, elegant structure, and long, luxurious finish, it’s easy to see why this wine has gained such a dedicated following among wine enthusiasts and collectors.
Whether you’re a seasoned Barbaresco fan or just starting to explore the world of Italian wine, Gaja Sorì Tildìn is definitely worth trying.
Its outstanding quality and reputation make it a great choice for special occasions, celebrations, or simply enjoying with a delicious meal.
Read our full review here.
Buying Guide to Barbaresco
It’s not just about which Barbaresco you should buy.
There are other important aspects like how to serve it, food pairings, and much more.
The below buying guide will give you a detailed overview of all these topics.
Barbaresco Overview
Here you find an overview of where Barbaresco is most commonly planted.
Grape
Nebbiolo
ABV
13.5%–15%
Main Regions
Italy: Piemonte
Other Regions
-
Grape
Nebbiolo
ABV
13.5%–15%
Main Regions
Italy: Piemonte
Other Regions
-
Barbaresco Taste Profile
These are some of the most common aromas and flavors of Barbaresco.
Color
Pale Garnet
Nose
Cherry
Roses
Violet
Truffel
Licorice
Palate
Red Fruit, Licorice
Dry
Medium - High Acidity
Medium - High Tannins
Medium to Full Body
Color
Pale Garnet
Nose
Cherry
Roses
Violet
Truffel
Licorice
Palate
Red Fruit, Licorice
Dry
Medium - High Acidity
Medium - High Tannins
Medium to Full Body
Barbaresco Food Pairing
These are some food pairing suggestions for Barbaresco.
Appetizer
Porcini Mushroom,
Truffle Risotto/Tajarin,
Vitello Tonnato,
Grilled Radicchio,
Butternut Squash
Meat
Battuta di Fassona (Meat Tartare),
Braised Duck,
Roast Turkey,
Ribeye Steak
Fish
-
Cheese
Semi Hard (Parmigiano, Pecorino)
Blue Cheese (Gorgonzola)
Appetizer
Porcini Mushroom,
Truffle Risotto/Tajarin,
Vitello Tonnato,
Grilled Radicchio,
Butternut Squash
Meat
Battuta di Fassona (Meat Tartare),
Braised Duck,
Roast Turkey,
Ribeye Steak
Fish
-
Cheese
Semi Hard (Parmigiano, Pecorino)
Blue Cheese (Gorgonzola)
Serve and Store Barbaresco
Here you find some useful tips on how to serve and store Barbaresco.
Decant
1 hrs
Glass
Aroma Collector
Serve at
64 - 68 °F
18 - 20 °C
Store for
Up to 10 years
Up to 20+ years finest bottles only
Decant
1 hrs
Glass
Aroma Collector
Serve at
64 - 68 °F
18 - 20 °C
Store for
Up to 10 years
Up to 20+ years finest bottles only
Barbaresco Styles
You’ll find primarily two Barbaresco styles: DOCG and Riserva.
The DOCG appellation, see below in FAQ section for more details, requires 2 years of ageing and at least 9 months in oak.
Barbaresco Riserva must age for at least four years and at least 9 months in oak.
Barbaresco wine are very tannic, as such you should wait at least 5 to 10 years after vintage before drink it.Â
Our Verdict
What to do next?
Read our wine tasting guide to enhance your tasting experience and taste like the pro!
Alternatively, why don’t you check out our guides on Merlot, Pinot Noir, Cabernet Sauvignon vs Merlot, or the other red wines?
FAQ
Here are some of the most frequently asked questions about Barbaresco.
What does Barbaresco mean?
There’s not yet clarity about the origin of the name Barbaresco.
Many researches agree that the name comes from the barbaric tribes that caused the end of the Roman Empire. Â
What is Barbaresco history?
Barbaresco is one of first recognised appellations in Italy, along with Barolo since 1966.
The Barbaresco wine was first produced in 1894 in the Barbaresco area.
It’s only in the 1950s that Barbaresco become famous thanks to two young winemakers, Bruno Giacosa and Angelo Gaja, who started to market Barbaresco internationally.
Where does Nebbiolo grow best?
When is the perfect time to drink Barbaresco?
Barbaresco is a full body and complex wine, as such it is a great choice for truffle, rich fat dishes and red meats dinner.
Is Barbaresco sweet?
Barbaresco is not sweet. It is a dry wine which means it contains less than 15 g/L, or sugar per liter.
Learn more about wine sweetness level here.
What does the acronym DOC and DOCG mean?
DOC stands for Denominazione di Origine Controllata. It’s one of the highest classification in Italy.
DOCG stands for Denominazione di Origine Controllata e Garantita. It’s the highest classification in Italy.
Every DOCG wine is tested before bottling by a committee of licensed judges which guarantee the quality of the wine.
To obtain DOC winemakers need to follow rigorous protocols for harvesting, cultivation, and production.Â
Other common classifications are DO and IGT.[2]
What’s Barbaresco's typical price range?
Barbaresco is rarely an affordable wine but you can find good entry-level bottle around $30-$40.
Great bottles will generally priced around $50-$100 price range.
For those of you who are after the luxury segment be prepared to spend several $100s.
