2021 Babo Langhe Nebbiolo, Piedmont

The latest wine from Justin Bubb and the Babo team is a Langhe Nebbiolo, sourced from vineyards near the famed town of Castiglione Falletto. The sites mainly face southwest between 300 and 400 metres above sea level. The 2021 vintage came with challenges: spring frosts affected yields, and the summer months were warm, but the fruit quality at the end of the season was fantastic. The fruit was handpicked, destemmed and macerated for about a week with twice-daily pumpovers. To preserve freshness and bright red-fruit appeal, the wine matured in concrete tanks for just a short period.

Babo’s knack for wines of bright, easy-going charm is writ large over this Langhe Nebbiolo. It’s a fantastic addition to this brilliant range. Dusty floral notes and bright, pure red berry fruits join subtle earth and spice notes on the complex nose. The palate is just as good: juicy with firm but open tannins and an easy, drink-me-now appeal.