2023 Mauro Molino Langhe Nebbiolo Organic, Piedmont

This red offer freshness and crunchiness, with red berries, citrus peel and hints of cherry blossoms and crushed stones. Medium-bodied, juicy and sleek, with a vivid, seductive aftertaste. Drink now.

91 points jamessuckling.com

Mauro Molino Langhe Nebbiolo Organic from Piedmont is a gorgeous window into what makes Nebbiolo so captivating even outside the famous hills of Barolo and Barbaresco. The fruit is organically grown in vineyards around La Morra where Molino has long focused on purity, site expression and gentle winemaking. These parcels sit on classic Piedmont soils of clay, limestone and ancient marl, giving the wine its perfume, tension and vivid red fruit charm. The estate has become one of the region’s most respected family run producers, and their organic work in the vineyard has only sharpened the clarity and brightness of their Nebbiolo.

The wine is crafted with a light touch. Hand harvested fruit is gently fermented to capture the floral lift and precise tannin structure that define the variety. Ageing takes place in a mix of stainless steel and larger neutral oak, deliberately chosen to preserve freshness and aromatics rather than add weight. This style makes the Langhe Nebbiolo a beautiful expression of pure, youthful Nebbiolo fruit without the deep structure or long ageing demands of Barolo.

In the glass it shines a pale ruby garnet typical of Nebbiolo. The nose is fragrant and expressive with rose petals, violets, wild strawberry, pomegranate and red cherry mingling with subtle spice, dried herb, anise and a faint hint of earthy minerality. As it opens, a touch of orange peel and tea leaf joins the bouquet, giving it that unmistakable Piedmontese elegance.

The palate is vibrant, fine and beautifully balanced. Tart cherry, raspberry and cranberry flavours glide across the tongue supported by bright acidity and silky tannins that still carry a little Nebbiolo grip. Notes of baking spice, dried flowers, sweet earth and a gentle mineral line add layers of complexity. The finish is long, clean and refreshing with a mouthwatering red fruit tone that invites another sip. Its combination of delicacy and structure makes it incredibly food friendly and one of the best introductions to organic Nebbiolo in the region.

Pair it with truffle risotto, tajarin pasta with butter and sage, porcini dishes, grilled quail, duck breast with balsamic glaze, or even simple pizza with tomato, basil and fresh mozzarella. It also works beautifully with aged cheeses or lighter vegetarian dishes. Cellar potential sits comfortably around five to eight years, gaining savoury depth and softening its tannins over time.