2021 Mirafiore Langhe Nebbiolo DOC, Piedmont

As if school is in session, this Langhe Nebbiolo opens with aromas of tart cherries, thyme, bay leaf, hints of rose and dried leaf. The palate is vibrant with mouthwatering acidity that lifts up the core of red fruits and allows the more savory elements to shine on the finish.

91 points wineenthusiast.com

Notes of ripe cherries with hints of cocoa and dried citrus peel. Some licorice and bark, too. Medium- to full-bodied with chalky tannins and spiced ripe berry character. From organically grown grapes. Drink now.

91 points jamessuckling.com

There is something wonderfully romantic about Mirafiore, a historic Piedmont estate founded in 1878 by Emanuele Alberto, son of Italy’s first king Vittorio Emanuele II. Today part of the Fontanafredda family, the winery continues to honour traditional Langhe winemaking while embracing thoughtful sustainability and modern precision. Nestled among rolling hills and fog kissed vineyards near Barolo, Mirafiore crafts wines that capture the charm and authenticity of Nebbiolo without the weight or long wait of its more famous neighbours. Langhe Nebbiolo is often called the gateway to Barolo, and here it delivers both character and approachability.

A bright garnet ruby hue sets the tone for an aromatic lift of rose petal, sour cherry and wild strawberry layered with hints of anise, dried herbs and a gentle earthy spice. There is a classic Nebbiolo perfume that feels immediately inviting, expressive yet refined, offering a glimpse into the grape’s noble personality.

On the palate the wine shows beautiful structure with fine grained tannins and lively acidity framing flavours of red currant, cranberry and subtle savoury notes of leather and forest floor. It is medium bodied and energetic, finishing with a delicate bitterness that adds authenticity and food friendly charm. While delicious in its youth, a few years in bottle will soften the edges and reveal further nuance of dried florals and spice.

This is a wine made for convivial tables and generous plates. Pair it with tajarin pasta with ragù, vitello tonnato, porcini risotto or chargrilled lamb cutlets. Mirafiore Langhe Nebbiolo brings a sense of Piedmontese warmth and heritage to the moment, perfect for relaxed long lunches or rustic dinners with friends where stories and laughter flow as easily as the wine.