The 10 Best Barbaresco You Should Drink in 2023

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Barbaresco
This is our review of the 10 Best Barbaresco you should drink this year. Enjoy!
Welcome! Have you ever found yourself staring at many Barbaresco bottles wondering which one you would like best?
 
We spent a lot of hours researching the topic and tested hundreds of wines to come up with the below 10 best-of list for you.
 
We have ranked them by quality, region, and value for money and added an extensive buying guide so that you have all you need to make an informed decision.
 
I come from a nearby area and I know Piemonte very well, let’s say that you are going to have some local insight here.
 
You don’t have to spend several $100s to get an outstanding bottle of wine.
 
Choose one of the below bottles and you’ll find quality wines at a competitive price, for all occasions and pockets.
 
Barbaresco is one of the top-quality wines, along with Barolo, made entirely from Nebbiolo grapes.
 
It’s produced in the comunes of Barbaresco, Neive, Treiso and frazione San Rocco Seno d’Elvio in the area of the Langhe in the Piemonte region in Italy.  
 
It’s known for its intense red fruit aromas, high acidity, and high tannin content which makes Barbaresco suitable even for decades of aging.
 
Barbaresco has a DOCG appellation, that we are going to go through below.
 
Our best value bottle selection for you is Ronchi Barbaresco 2019.
 
If you are after the best overall bottles our recommendation are Roagna Pajè Barbaresco and Castello di Neive Barbaresco Santo Stefano 2019.
 
You’ll find the table of content below. Let’s start with the review!
4.4/5

Vivino’s tips: Good value for money. Similar wines usually cost 78% more. | Featured in Vivino’s 2020 Wine Style Awards: Italian Barbaresco (2013 Vintage)

Region: Italy, Piemonte

Tasting notes: Red Fruit, Leather, Tobacco, Spices, Violet, Rose.

Roagna Pajè Barbaresco is a stunning wine that embodies the traditional style of Barbaresco while showcasing the distinct characteristics of the Pajè vineyard.

The wine’s complex aromas and flavors, combined with its impeccable balance and structure, make it a true standout among Barbarescos.

This wine is a testament to the Roagna family’s commitment to producing top-quality wines with a deep respect for tradition and terroir.

Anyone who appreciates the elegance and complexity of Barbaresco should not miss the opportunity to try Roagna Pajè Barbaresco.

4.5/5

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 dark fruit and spices, and its complex flavors of black 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.

Despite its full body and powerful tannins, it maintains a remarkable finesse that makes it a pleasure to drink.

And while it is undeniably a wine that will age beautifully for many years to come, it is also enjoyable now with a good decanting.

Overall, the Castello di Neive Barbaresco Santo Stefano 2019 is a wine that every wine enthusiast should have in their cellar.

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!

4.3/5

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 Italian red wine that showcases the best qualities of the Nebbiolo grape.

This wine is a true masterpiece, with its complex aromas and flavors, firm tannins, and balanced acidity.

It is a perfect example of how Italian winemakers can produce world-class wines, and Ronchi is one of the most renowned wineries in the region.

This wine is a must-try for any wine enthusiast, and its aging potential makes it a great addition to any wine cellar.

3.9/5

Vivino’s tips: Good value for money. Similar wines usually cost 50% more.

Region: Italy, Piemonte

Tasting notes: Ripe Cherry, Strawberry, Plum, Earthy, Rose, Violet.

This is a great entry level Barbaresco that offers great value for your money!

The bouquet is layered with forest floor, violet, rose and berry, while the palate delivers ripe cherry, white pepper, cinnamon and mint flavours.

The tannins are still youthful and tight.

4.2/5

Vivino’s tips: Great value for money. Similar wines usually cost 2 times as much.

Region: Italy, Piemonte

Tasting notes: Cherry, Raspberry, Plum, Leather, Earthy, Violet.

At this price range, this is currently one of the best Barbaresco you can find from price ratio point of view.

Expect cherry, raspberry, plum, oak and leather notes and balanced wine overall.

4.1/5

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 fantastic expression of the Nebbiolo grape and a shining example of the quality that can be achieved in the Barbaresco DOCG.

Its elegant, complex flavor profile is a testament to the skill and expertise of the winemakers at Prunotto, who have managed to create a wine that perfectly balances power and finesse.

Whether you’re a fan of Italian wines or simply looking for a high-quality red to enjoy, Prunotto Barbaresco is definitely worth seeking out.

Its versatility and depth of flavor make it an excellent choice to pair with a wide range of dishes, and its aging potential means that it will only continue to improve with time.

All in all, this is a wine that’s sure to impress and delight even the most discerning of wine enthusiasts.

4.5/5

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.

4.3/5

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.

Bric Balin is another great Barbaresco bottle at a very competitive price for the quality it offers. I’ll be quick if I were you!

Lively, juicy and nicely balanced, with harmonious acidity framing the wine’s red fruit and medicinal flavors.

Very good depth and length here, with the tannins nicely supporting the wine’s finishing fruit.

4.5/5

Vivino’s tips: Great value for money. Similar wines usually cost 4 times as much.

Region: Italy, Piemonte

Tasting notes: Sour Cherry, Strawberry, Plum, Rose, Tobacco, Cinnamon.

Carlo Giacosa Luca Barbaresco Riserva is a remarkable wine that showcases the best of the Nebbiolo grape.

With its complex aromas of dark fruit, earth, and spice, as well as its nuanced flavors of red berries, licorice, and tobacco, this wine is a true delight for the senses.

Its fine tannins and lively acidity provide structure and balance, while its long and elegant finish leaves a lasting impression.

Whether you are a fan of Italian wine or a lover of fine wine in general, the Carlo Giacosa Luca Barbaresco Riserva is a must-try.

Its exceptional quality and craftsmanship make it a true gem of the wine world.

4.6/5

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.

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. 

Our Verdict

Barbaresco DOCG is one of the top-quality wines, along with Barolo, made from Nebbiolo grapes.
 
If you have been through the buying guide, you should have a pretty good idea of how to navigate the Barbaresco world.
 
At the same time, you have probably realized by now, that there’s a huge selection and various price points.
 
The good news is that you can get very high quality usually at a good price if you know where to look!
 
That’s why proper guidance comes in handy. We hope our guide was helpful in this regard.
 
Our best value bottle selection for you is Ronchi Barbaresco 2019.
 
If you are after the best overall bottles our recommendation are Roagna Pajè Barbaresco and Castello di Neive Barbaresco Santo Stefano 2019.
 
As always, make sure to serve your Barbaresco at the right temperature and with the proper glass.

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.  

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?

Nebbiolo is a delicate grape and needs a careful site selection.
 
It gives its best in calcareous marl soil, dry weather and warm climate. This allows the sugar and fruity flavors to develop and counterbalance the high acidity.

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. 

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.

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