2023 Marcarini Lasarin Nebbiolo Langhe DOC, Piedmont

A fruity and fragrant wine with pristine aromas of strawberries, red currants, licorice and violets. Supple and graceful at first, then fiercely dusty due to nebbiolo’s tannins. Light-bodied in an overall crunchy style. Drink or hold.

91 points jamessuckling.com

Marcarini Lasarin Nebbiolo Langhe DOC from Piedmont is a beautifully expressive wine that offers a more accessible yet still elegant introduction to the Nebbiolo grape, the iconic variety of the Langhe region. Marcarini, a historic family-owned winery in Piedmont, is known for producing wines that faithfully reflect the terroir of the Langhe, and this Nebbiolo is no exception. The Lasarin Nebbiolo comes from younger vines in the Langhe area, but it still carries the hallmark finesse and structure that the region’s wines are famous for.

The fruit for this wine is handpicked from the estate’s carefully tended vineyards, where the combination of steep slopes and clay-limestone soils provides an ideal growing environment for Nebbiolo. Fermentation takes place in stainless steel tanks to preserve the purity and freshness of the fruit, followed by aging in large oak barrels to add subtle complexity without overpowering the wine’s natural vibrancy.

In the glass, Marcarini Lasarin Nebbiolo presents a brilliant ruby-red color, with hints of garnet as it ages. The nose is fragrant and inviting, with aromas of fresh red berries like cherry and raspberry, along with floral notes of rose and violet, typical of Nebbiolo. There are also hints of tobacco, dried herbs, and a touch of spice, adding depth to the aromatic profile. On the palate, the wine is medium-bodied with smooth, fine tannins and a lively acidity that provides balance and structure. The fruit flavors are bright and pure, with red berries and plum leading the way, complemented by subtle earthy and floral notes. The finish is long and clean, with lingering fruit and a touch of spice.

Marcarini Lasarin Nebbiolo is a versatile food wine, perfect for pairing with a wide range of dishes. It pairs wonderfully with roasted meats like chicken or lamb, pasta with rich tomato-based sauces, or even mushroom risotto. It’s also an excellent match for semi-aged cheeses like Pecorino or aged Gouda. Whether enjoyed young or after a few years of cellaring, this Nebbiolo offers a beautiful introduction to the elegance and depth of Piedmontese wines.