What kind of wine is Barbaresco DOCG 2022 - Giuseppe Cortese?

The Barbaresco DOCG 2022 - Giuseppe Cortese represents one of the most authentic expressions of Nebbiolo from the Langa region. Produced from family vineyards located in the historic Rabajà mention, in the heart of the municipality of Barbaresco, it originates from calcareous-clay soils at about 250 meters of altitude. This terrain yields wines of extraordinary elegance and depth.

This Barbaresco stands out for its harmonious structure and immediate drinkability. Conceived as a red with a refined yet accessible character, it combines the typical complexity of the appellation with the pleasantness of a balanced wine, perfect for enjoyment even by those taking their first steps into the world of great Piedmontese wines.

Vintage Details

The 2022 vintage was characterized by regular climatic conditions, with a warm but not extreme summer and well-distributed rainfall during the crucial ripening period. The Nebbiolo grapes reached optimal phenolic maturity, ensuring soft and well-integrated tannins. The result is a fine, balanced, and pleasantly fresh Barbaresco, with a clear and defined aromatic profile.

Winemaking and aging

The grapes are harvested manually and then undergo traditional fermentation with maceration on the skins for about two weeks. This step allows for the controlled extraction of color and tannins, while maintaining the refinement that characterizes the Cortese style. The wine then ages for 18 months in Slavonian oak barrels, where it gains complexity and finesse, before refining for another six months in the bottle before release.

Tasting Notes

Color

Visually, the Barbaresco DOCG 2022 - Giuseppe Cortese displays a bright garnet red, typical of Nebbiolo, with subtle orange hues on the edges that hint at its elegance.

Nose

The aroma is fine and enveloping, with notes of ripe red fruits, cherry, and raspberry, followed by floral hints of violet and withered rose. The oak aging adds delicate spicy nuances and a balsamic undertone that amplifies its aromatic complexity.

Palate

On the palate, it is balanced and harmonious. The structure of Nebbiolo is expressed through silky tannins and a lively freshness that prolongs the drinking experience. The persistence is elegant, with a mineral finish that invites another sip.

What dishes to pair with Barbaresco DOCG 2022 - Giuseppe Cortese

Versatile and refined, this Barbaresco enhances the most traditional Piedmontese and Italian dishes. It pairs perfectly with:

• grilled or braised red meats
• first courses with truffles or game sauces
• aged hard cheeses
• autumn dishes based on mushrooms or creamy risottos

It is also an ideal wine to be shared during a special dinner, where it can express its elegance without overpowering the flavors of the dish.

Storage and aging: how to store Barbaresco DOCG 2022 - Giuseppe Cortese wine

To best appreciate its qualities, it is advisable to store the Barbaresco DOCG 2022 - Giuseppe Cortese in a cool, dark place, at a constant temperature of around 14-16°C, preferably horizontally to keep the cork moist.

While enjoyable when young due to its immediacy, this wine has excellent aging potential: it can refine for 8-10 years, developing more complex hints of sweet spices, tobacco, and undergrowth over time. A red that combines finesse and longevity, perfect for those who desire a great Piedmontese classic capable of thrilling even over time.