2020 Cascina Luisin Barbaresco Paolin, Piedmont

Attractive nose with ripe red berries, hints of nutmeg, dried flowers, licorice and cocoa beans. Some mineral undertones. Medium-bodied, round and textured with refined tannins. Fresh and floral with a seamless, creamy finish. Try from 2025.

94 points jamessuckling.com

Cascina Luisin Barbaresco Paolin is a classic and expressive Nebbiolo from the prestigious Barbaresco DOCG in Piedmont, Italy. Produced by Cascina Luisin, an estate with deep roots in traditional winemaking since 1913, this wine embodies the balance of power and elegance that defines Barbaresco. Sourced from the Paolin vineyard, it reflects the unique terroir of the site, offering a wine of remarkable finesse and aging potential.

The Paolin vineyard is situated in the Treiso commune of Barbaresco, benefiting from southeast-facing slopes and calcareous clay soils. These factors create an ideal environment for Nebbiolo, allowing it to ripen slowly and develop its characteristic aromatic complexity, vibrant acidity, and refined tannic structure.

Winemaking at Cascina Luisin is guided by tradition and a respect for the vineyard. Grapes are hand-harvested and undergo fermentation with native yeasts, followed by extended maceration to extract depth and structure. The wine is aged for 30 months in large Slavonian oak casks, which enhance its texture and integrate its flavors without overpowering its delicate fruit profile. Minimal intervention ensures the wine’s purity and expression of terroir.

In the glass, Cascina Luisin Barbaresco Paolin exhibits a brilliant garnet hue. The nose is elegant and complex, offering aromas of red cherries, wild strawberries, and dried roses, alongside hints of licorice, tobacco, and subtle earthy undertones. On the palate, it is medium to full-bodied, with fine-grained tannins and bright acidity framing flavors of ripe red fruit, tar, and savory herbs. The finish is long and precise, marked by a harmonious interplay of fruit, minerality, and spice.

This Barbaresco pairs beautifully with traditional Piedmontese dishes such as agnolotti del plin, risotto with truffles, or braised meats. It also complements aged cheeses like Taleggio or Grana Padano. While enjoyable now with decanting, Paolin has the structure to age gracefully for 10-15 years or more, gaining additional complexity and nuance over time.