2020 Lethbridge il regalo di compleanno Nebbiolo, Pyrenees

I’m not certain that this wine is squeaky clean, it might be, it’s certainly very dry through the finish, and meaty, with a keen wrench to the tannin. I only mention this little self-doubt because I like the wine very much, and would eagerly buy and drink it myself, but I wouldn’t like anyone to think that it’s a walk on the safe side. Right. This wine is complex with cherry-plum, mint, meat, undergrowth, decayed rose and earth characters, and is as far as I’m concerned both a delight, and one of the best nebbiolos I’ve seen from the Malakoff vineyard.

94 points Campbell Mattinson winefront.com.au

Lethbridge Il Regalo di Compleanno Nebbiolo from the Pyrenees is a special wine that offers a unique take on one of Italy's most iconic grape varieties. The Pyrenees region of Victoria, Australia, is known for its cool climate, which is ideal for producing Nebbiolo, a grape that thrives in similar conditions in Italy's Piedmont region. Lethbridge Wines, led by the talented winemaker Ray Nadeson, has made a name for itself with its commitment to producing wines that reflect the character of the land, and the Il Regalo di Compleanno Nebbiolo is a perfect example of their dedication to crafting exceptional, terroir-driven wines.

The name "Il Regalo di Compleanno," which translates to "The Birthday Gift," reflects the winemaker’s approach to this wine: a gift of elegance, complexity, and age-worthiness. Ray Nadeson’s focus on low-intervention winemaking and sustainable practices ensures that this Nebbiolo is true to its roots, allowing the grape’s natural characteristics to shine. The Nebbiolo for this wine is hand-harvested from the estate’s vineyards, where the cool, elevated conditions of the Pyrenees help preserve the wine’s natural acidity and freshness. The wine is aged in French oak barrels, adding subtle complexity and depth while maintaining the bright fruit and earthy qualities that Nebbiolo is known for.

In the glass, Lethbridge Il Regalo di Compleanno Nebbiolo has a vibrant ruby-red color, with hints of garnet as it ages. The nose is aromatic and complex, offering a beautiful bouquet of red fruit, including cherry, raspberry, and strawberry, along with earthy notes of leather, tobacco, and a touch of dried herbs. There’s a delicate spice, reminiscent of clove and anise, along with subtle floral notes of rose petals and violet that give the wine an added layer of elegance and depth.

On the palate, the wine is medium-bodied, with bright acidity that is characteristic of Nebbiolo, providing a refreshing backbone to the wine. The red fruit flavors are vibrant and fresh, with cherry and raspberry standing out, while earthy and savory notes of leather, dried herbs, and a touch of spice add complexity. The tannins are firm but well-integrated, giving the wine structure and age-worthiness. The finish is long, with lingering flavors of fruit, earth, and spice that leave a lasting impression.

Lethbridge Il Regalo di Compleanno Nebbiolo is an excellent wine for food pairing, especially with dishes that have rich, savory flavors. It pairs beautifully with roasted meats, such as lamb or beef, as well as earthy dishes like mushroom risotto or truffle-infused pasta. It also goes well with aged cheeses, particularly Parmigiano Reggiano or Pecorino.