Grape · Red

Nebbiolo

Also known as Chiavennasca in Lombardy or Spanna in Northern Piedmont

Moderate climate

About

The grape of Barolo and Barbaresco. Notoriously high in tannin and acidity when young; requires extensive ageing to soften. Made exclusively as a single varietal.

Typical profile

Body

Moderate

Tannins

Grippy

Acidity

Electric

Sweetness

Dry

Aromas

What the grape gives up young, and what it grows into with time in bottle.

Young · fresh from the glass

cherry plum rose violet

Aged · develops with bottle time

mushroom tobacco leather truffle

Explore aromas

Oak influence

Common

Aging

Needs 10-20+ years to fully develop; can age for several decades.

Growing regions

How the grape expresses across places, grouped by country. Chips call out how a region's style deviates from the grape's default.

Italy

Lombardy

Softer↓

Called Chiavennasca in Valtellina, lighter alpine style

Piedmont

Fuller↑

Pale garnet, fierce tannin, soaring acidity. The famous nose of tar and roses sits over cherry and liquorice; Barolo brings power and grip, Barbaresco drinks earlier.

Food pairings

Braised short ribs with porcini mushrooms and polentaOsso buco alla milanese with saffron risottoRoasted leg of lamb with rosemary and garlic confitWild boar ragu with pappardelle pastaGrilled portobello mushrooms stuffed with aged Parmigiano-ReggianoDark chocolate tart with espresso ganache

Similar grapes

Baga

Carignan

Rondinella

Malbec

Colorino

Frequently Asked Questions

What does Nebbiolo taste like?▼

Young Nebbiolo shows bright cherry and plum flavors with floral notes of rose and violet, but it's notably high in tannins and acidity. With age, it develops complex earthy aromas of mushroom, tobacco, leather, and tar.

Where does Nebbiolo grow best?▼

Nebbiolo thrives in moderate climates and is most famous in Italy's Piedmont region. It's the grape behind the legendary wines of Barolo and Barbaresco.

What food pairs with Nebbiolo?▼

Nebbiolo's high tannins and acidity make it perfect for rich, fatty foods like braised meats, aged cheeses, and truffle dishes. The wine's intensity can stand up to robust flavors and heavy sauces.

How does Nebbiolo age?▼

Nebbiolo requires extensive aging to soften its notoriously high tannins and acidity when young. Over time, it transforms from bright fruit flavors to complex tertiary notes of leather, tobacco, and tar.

Is Nebbiolo similar to Pinot Noir?▼

While both are red grapes that can show floral notes, Nebbiolo is much more tannic and acidic than Pinot Noir. Nebbiolo requires significant aging and is more structured and intense compared to Pinot Noir's elegance and approachability.