Nebbiolo “Perbacco” 2021 – Vietti

The 2020 “Perbacco” Nebbiolo from Vietti unfolds as a narrative that intricately weaves the uniqueness of its vineyards with the storied tapestry of Piedmont’s wine tradition. This offering stands as a beacon of Vietti’s winemaking prowess, showcasing the Nebbiolo grape in a form that is both approachable and deeply reflective of the terroir’s distinct characteristics. The “Perbacco” is not merely a wine; it is a testament to the dedication of a winery that has long been at the forefront of championing the Nebbiolo varietal, revealing its versatility and depth through careful vineyard selection and winemaking artistry.

At the heart of “Perbacco” lies the symbiotic relationship between the vine and its environment. The Nebbiolo grapes for this cuvée are sourced from several of Vietti’s most esteemed vineyards within the Barolo region, including sites in Castiglione Falletto, Monforte d’Alba, and Barolo itself. These vineyards are renowned for their varied microclimates and soil compositions, ranging from calcareous marl to sandstone and clay, factors that contribute significantly to the complexity and multifaceted nature of the wine. The diversity of these terroirs, coupled with the vineyards’ differing altitudes and orientations, allows each plot to express a unique aspect of Nebbiolo, from delicate floral aromas to rich, structured tannins.

Vietti’s approach to crafting the “Perbacco” Nebbiolo emphasizes the expression of these individual vineyard characteristics while achieving a harmonious balance in the final blend. The grapes are meticulously harvested, with an emphasis on selecting clusters that best represent the vintage and the vineyard’s qualities. This selective process ensures that only the finest fruit makes its way into the “Perbacco,” a wine that is designed to offer an early drinking window into the complexity of Nebbiolo from the Barolo area.

The vinification of “Perbacco” is a deliberate effort to preserve the grape’s intrinsic aromatics and flavors, while imparting structure and longevity. Following fermentation, the wine undergoes an extended aging period in a mix of large oak casks and smaller barrels. This aging regimen is carefully calibrated to enhance the wine’s body and complexity without overshadowing the Nebbiolo’s natural elegance and finesse. The result is a wine that strikes a perfect balance between the tannic backbone characteristic of Nebbiolo and the approachability desired in a wine meant for earlier consumption.

Tasting the Nebbiolo “Perbacco” 2020 reveals a spectrum of sensory experiences. The wine greets the palate with vibrant notes of red fruits, violets, and hints of spice, underlain by a subtle earthiness that speaks to the Piedmontese terroir. The texture is simultaneously robust and refined, with tannins that are present yet polished, leading to a long, nuanced finish that invites contemplation and further exploration.

The “Perbacco” Nebbiolo is more than an expression of a single grape variety; it is a reflection of the region’s viticultural diversity and Vietti’s commitment to showcasing the potential of its vineyards. Through this wine, Vietti manages to encapsulate the essence of Barolo’s terroir, offering wine enthusiasts a glimpse into the varietal’s capacity to convey the nuances of its environment.

In conclusion, the 2020 “Perbacco” Nebbiolo by Vietti is a celebration of the Nebbiolo grape and the unique vineyards of the Barolo region. It encapsulates the winery’s dedication to expressing the subtleties of terroir through meticulous vineyard management and thoughtful winemaking. This wine stands as a testament to Vietti’s legacy in the Piedmont wine region, offering a sophisticated yet accessible entry into the world of Nebbiolo. With “Perbacco,” Vietti continues to pave the way for understanding and appreciating the complexity and elegance of this storied varietal, making it an essential experience for any aficionado of Italian wines.