2024 Cordero di Montezemolo Langhe Nebbiolo DOC, Piedmont

A lively nose reminiscent of lavender, plums, hyacinth, and gardenias. Full-bodied, with excellent, bite-y tannins and a solid, progressive finish. Better from 2027.

91 points winescritic.com

Cordero di Montezemolo Langhe Nebbiolo DOC from Piedmont is a wine that packs all the elegance of Barolo but with a more approachable, fun twist. If you’ve ever wanted to experience the complexity and flavor of Nebbiolo without waiting for years of aging, this is your wine. From the famous Cordero di Montezemolo winery, which has been producing world-class wines in the heart of the Langhe for centuries, this Langhe Nebbiolo DOC is a great introduction to one of Italy's finest grape varieties.

The winery itself has a rich history, dating back to 1340, and is run by Enrico Cordero, who’s passionate about preserving tradition while embracing modern winemaking techniques. This Langhe Nebbiolo DOC is made from younger Nebbiolo vines, so it’s a little more vibrant and accessible than its more powerful Barolo siblings. But don’t be fooled—just because it’s easy-drinking doesn’t mean it lacks depth and complexity.

Cordero di Montezemolo Langhe Nebbiolo DOC is a wonderful introduction to Nebbiolo from one of Piedmont’s most historic families, offering all the variety’s charm without the long wait of Barolo. The vineyards sit across the Langhe hills, where calcareous clay soils and rolling elevations give perfume, structure and that unmistakable Nebbiolo tension. It is a wine that captures place and tradition in a more immediately approachable form.

The Cordero di Montezemolo family has been part of Piedmont since the fourteenth century, with their Monfalletto estate in La Morra forming the backbone of their reputation. While they are best known for Barolo, the same care and classical mindset shape this Langhe Nebbiolo. The aim is clarity and balance, not power, allowing Nebbiolo’s aromatic complexity to shine.

In the glass, the wine is beautifully expressive. Rose petal, sour cherry and wild strawberry are layered with subtle spice, dried herbs and a hint of earthy savouriness. The palate is medium bodied with fine, dusty tannins and bright acidity, giving structure without severity. It feels energetic and elegant, very much in the traditional Langhe mould.

At the table, this is a natural partner for food. It works beautifully with pasta, veal, mushroom dishes or simple roasted meats. While it is designed to be enjoyed young for its vibrancy, it will also develop extra savoury and floral complexity over five to eight years in the cellar. A classic, finely tuned Nebbiolo that shows why this grape remains one of Italy’s greats.