2021 La Spinetta Barbaresco Valeirano DOCG, Piedmont

Lots of rose petals and botanicals on the nose with cherries and dried peaches. Full-bodied with chewy tannins that are juicy and plush. Flavorful and very long. Lots going on here. Very solid and crisp. Drink in four or five years.

96 points jamessuckling.com

La Spinetta Barbaresco Valeirano DOCG is one of the most striking expressions of Nebbiolo from the hills of Treiso in the Barbaresco zone of Piedmont. The estate was founded in 1977 by Giuseppe Rivetti and is now led by his sons Giorgio, Bruno and Carlo Rivetti, with Giorgio widely regarded as the creative force behind the wines. What began as a small Moscato producer grew into one of Piedmont’s most recognised estates, known for meticulous vineyard work and richly expressive single vineyard Barbarescos. The Valeirano vineyard sits on the cooler slopes of Treiso at around 300 metres above sea level where limestone rich calcareous marl soils give Nebbiolo both perfume and structure. The site consistently produces wines of aromatic lift and finely etched tannins. Fermentation involves extended maceration followed by ageing in French oak, allowing the wine to develop depth while preserving the elegance of the vineyard.

A brilliant garnet red in the glass, the wine immediately opens with lifted aromas of rose petals, violets and wild red berries layered with hints of orange peel, anise, spice and a touch of tar that signals classic Nebbiolo character. The palate is structured yet polished, showing flavours of sour cherry, raspberry and blood orange framed by silky but persistent tannins and vibrant acidity. As it unfolds, savoury notes of dried herbs, forest floor and liquorice add complexity while a mineral thread carries the wine through a long, refined finish. This is a superb partner for slow braised beef, roasted duck, truffle dishes or aged Parmigiano Reggiano. With careful cellaring it will reward patience for twenty to thirty years as the wine evolves into deeper layers of spice, earth and dried rose.