At a glance

Producer

Moccagatta

Region

Barbaresco, Piedmont, Italy

Grape variety

Nebbiolo

Wine type

Red

Body

Full-bodied and Bold

Sweetness

Dry

Typical price

$45-$60

Tasting profile

Displays fresh cherry, rose petal, tar, and hints of truffle with firm tannic backbone.

Evolution: Will develop layers of dried herbs, leather, forest floor, and secondary tertiary notes over the next decade.

At peak: Complex aromas with silky tannins and balanced acidity, showing elegance and depth.

Structure

Acidity

High, vibrant

Tannins

Firm, structured

Alcohol

14.0% ABV

Aging potential

20-25 years

Drinking window

Peak drinking

2030 to 2045

Optimal window

2026 to 2048

Current status

Approaching Early Maturity

Current condition

Youthful tannins and acidity with emerging aromatic complexity

The Barbaresco Bric Balin from Moccagatta is made from Nebbiolo known for slow maturation. The 2020 vintage is very good with good phenolic ripeness and acidity. This allows for a long aging window with aromatics and texture reaching their apex in 10-15 years, and extending well beyond for tertiary development.

Food pairing

Roast lamb, braised beef, aged cheeses (such as Parmigiano-Reggiano), mushroom risotto, truffle dishes.

Serving

Serving temperature

16-18°C / 61-64°F

Decant

Yes (1-2 hours) — To open up tight tannins and enhance aromatics before drinking.

Sustainability

Sustainability score: 7/10

Moccagatta employs integrated pest management, optimizes water use through drip irrigation, and uses lightweight bottles to reduce packaging weight. They have begun implementing solar panels on site to reduce energy consumption.

While not certified organic or biodynamic, Moccagatta exhibits strong sustainable farming practices. Their focus on water conservation, energy use reduction, and lightweight packaging contributes positively. Regional transport limits carbon footprint somewhat compared to New World imports.