What kind of wine is Barbaresco 'Martinenga' 2020 - Marchesi di Grésy

The Barbaresco 'Martinenga' 2020 - Marchesi di Grésy is a red wine of great elegance, produced in the heart of the Langhe from 100% Nebbiolo grapes. The Barbaresco DOCG denomination represents one of the highest expressions of Piedmontese winemaking, known for complex yet balanced wines, capable of maturing over time with surprising grace. The Martinenga vineyard, owned by Marchesi di Grésy, is located in a natural basin facing south and protected to the west by the Tanaro river. This unique pedoclimatic microcosm gives the wine structure, aromatic depth, and an elegance that makes it immediately recognizable.

Vintage Details

The 2020 vintage was characterized by balanced weather conditions: a mild winter, a regular spring, and a warm summer with good diurnal temperature variations. These conditions favored complete maturation of the Nebbiolo grapes, ensuring great aromatic richness and fine, well-integrated tannins. The result is a Barbaresco of remarkable balance, where elegance and power coexist harmoniously.

Winemaking and Aging

The production of Barbaresco 'Martinenga' 2020 - Marchesi di Grésy follows careful winemaking that respects tradition. The grapes are fermented in steel tanks with a maceration on the skins of about 10-12 days, followed by a complete malolactic fermentation that naturally softens the acidity. Aging takes place in large oak barrels – a choice that enhances the finesse of Nebbiolo without overpowering its aromas – for a period of approximately 24 months, followed by further rest in the bottle before release.

Tasting Notes

Tasting the Barbaresco 'Martinenga' 2020 - Marchesi di Grésy reveals all the complexity and finesse of this wine, an authentic expression of Nebbiolo and the terroir from which it originates.

Color

It presents an intense garnet red color with developing orange reflections, typical of evolving great Nebbiolo wines.

Nose

The aromatic profile is broad and refined, with hints of ripe red fruits, cherry, and raspberry, accompanied by floral notes of dried violet and touches of sweet spices, cocoa, and licorice. With evolution in the glass, hints of undergrowth and a slight balsamic note emerge.

Palate

On the palate, it is structured, enveloping, and balanced. The tannins – those natural substances responsible for the drying sensation – are fine and well-integrated. The typical freshness of Nebbiolo provides longevity and a clean palate, while the finish is long, elegant, and persistent, with returns of red fruit and spices.

Pairing Barbaresco 'Martinenga' 2020 - Marchesi di Grésy with food

This Barbaresco is a wine of remarkable gastronomic versatility, perfect for pairing with Piedmontese cuisine and beyond. It pairs excellently with:

• grilled or roasted red meats
• braised and stewed meats
• game dishes
• aged and hard cheeses
• tajarin with meat ragù or white truffle fondue

For those who love more refined culinary experiences, it can also accompany dishes based on porcini mushrooms or autumnal risottos.

Storage and Aging: how to store Barbaresco 'Martinenga' 2020 - Marchesi di Grésy

To best preserve the quality of this wine, it is advisable to store it in a cool environment, with a constant temperature between 12 and 16°C (54 and 61°F), away from direct light sources and vibrations. The ideal humidity is around 70%, and the bottle should be placed horizontally to keep the cork moist. Thanks to its structure and the quality of the grapes, the Barbaresco 'Martinenga' 2020 - Marchesi di Grésy has excellent aging potential: it can evolve for 10-15 years, developing even more complex and refined notes over time. A wine that combines elegance, tradition, and character, capable of inspiring emotion from the very first sip.