At a glance

Producer

Castello di Neive

Region

Barbaresco DOCG, Piedmont, Italy

Grape variety

Nebbiolo

Wine type

Red

Body

Full-bodied and Smooth

Sweetness

Dry

Typical price

$40-$60

Tasting profile

Red cherry, rose petals, dried herbs, baking spices, with underlying leather and tar notes

Evolution: Will develop complex tertiary aromas such as truffle, forest floor, and tobacco over the next decade

At peak: Rounder mouthfeel, integrated tannins, intense aromatic complexity, and harmonious finish

Structure

Acidity

High acidity typical of Barbaresco

Tannins

Firm but ripe tannins expected from Nebbiolo

Alcohol

Medium to medium-high (13.5%-14.0%)

Aging potential

20-25 years from vintage

Drinking window

Peak drinking

2028 to 2035

Optimal window

2024 to 2040

Current status

Developing, youthful tannins present

Current condition

Structurally sound, primary fruit and floral aromas evolving with early tertiary notes

The 2017 vintage, rated very good for Barbaresco, with good structure and balance, allows this wine a drinking window extending beyond two decades. Its high tannin and acidity levels provide the backbone for long aging, and it will soften and gain complexity after a few years of cellaring.

Food pairing

Grilled red meats, braised lamb, aged cheeses, truffle-based dishes, and hearty mushroom risottos

Serving

Serving temperature

16-18°C / 61-64°F

Decant

Yes (1-2 hours) — To allow aeration that softens tannins and reveals aromatics

Sustainability

Sustainability score: 7/10

Integrated pest management, reduced chemical inputs, soil conservation, water-efficient irrigation

Castello di Neive employs sustainable farming techniques that balance environmental health, economic viability, and social responsibility. While not fully organic or biodynamic, their practices minimize chemical use and promote biodiversity. The local sales within Italy versus exports lessen carbon emissions, though international distribution impacts footprint.