What kind of wine is Barbaresco Riserva DOCG 'Basarin' 2017 - Punset
The Barbaresco Riserva DOCG 'Basarin' 2017 - Punset is born on the hills of the Langhe, one of the most suitable areas in the world for the production of great red wines from Nebbiolo grapes. It is a Riserva with an authentic and profound character, the result of viticulture that respects nature and a artisanal approach that has always distinguished the Punset winery. This Barbaresco presents itself as a full-bodied, elegant, and complex wine, capable of fully expressing the characteristics of the Nebbiolo grape and the Basarin cru, one of the most renowned areas in the territory of Neive.Vintage details
The 2017 vintage was characterized by rather hot and dry weather conditions, which led to an early but balanced ripening of the grapes. Yields were below average, but the quality of the skins and tannins allowed for an intense, concentrated, and harmonious wine. A vintage that gives the Barbaresco Riserva 'Basarin' 2017 - Punset a rich and full-bodied profile, ideal for those who love Nebbiolo with a decisive and profound character.Winemaking and aging
The Nebbiolo grapes are harvested manually at the peak of their ripeness and ferment using only indigenous yeasts, which are naturally present on the skins and in the cellar environment. Maceration takes place for several weeks, to naturally extract color, aromas, and structure. Subsequently, the wine ages for about 33 months in oak barrels, where it develops complexity and harmony. The result is a Barbaresco Riserva that combines tradition and expressive purity, without excessive wood or invasive interventions.Tasting notes
Color
Visually, the Barbaresco Riserva DOCG 'Basarin' 2017 - Punset has a bright garnet red color, typical of the best evolving Nebbiolo, with orange reflections that anticipate its elegance.Nose
The bouquet is complex and enveloping: it releases notes of ripe red fruits, cherry, and raspberry, followed by spicy hints of liquorice, black pepper, and a touch of sweet tobacco. Floral and balsamic nuances then emerge, lending depth and finesse.Palate
On the palate, it is a structured and persistent wine, with silky tannins that envelop without overpowering. Its balanced acidity gives it freshness and longevity, while the finish is long, elegant, with a return of fruit and spices that invite another sip.What dishes to pair with Barbaresco Riserva DOCG 'Basarin' 2017 - Punset
Perfect for accompanying important and flavorful dishes, this Barbaresco Riserva finds its maximum expression with traditional Piedmontese cuisine and red meats. Ideal with:- beef braised in Barbaresco
- roast lamb or grilled chops
- tajarin with game ragout
- aged hard cheeses, such as Castelmagno or Parmigiano Reggiano
Storage and aging: how to store Barbaresco Riserva DOCG 'Basarin' 2017 - Punset wine
The Barbaresco Riserva DOCG 'Basarin' 2017 - Punset is a wine destined to last over time. If well stored, it can evolve magnificently for over 15 years, developing increasingly complex aromas and a softer texture. For proper storage:- Keep bottles horizontally, with the cork always in contact with the wine.
- Ideal temperature between 12°C and 16°C, in a cool, dark place with constant humidity.
- Avoid sudden temperature changes and vibrations.
Punset
The history of the Punset winery The Punset winery is synonymous with a long winemaking tradition that spans generations of winemakers dedicated to quality and excellence. Located in the Langhe hills, an area renowned for its prestigious vineyards, Punset has a history built on a love for the lan...
How to best open and serve Barbaresco Riserva DOCG 'Basarin' 2017 - Punset
1. Bottle Positioning
Before opening Barbaresco Riserva DOCG 'Basarin' 2017 - Punset, it is crucial to position the bottle correctly. If it has been lying in the cellar, place it upright at least 24 hours before serving, so that any sediment can settle at the bottom. Avoid shaking the bottle to preserve the wine's clarity.
2. Ideal Serving Temperature
Temperature significantly influences the aromatic perception of this prestigious Barbaresco. We recommend serving it at a temperature between 18°C and 20°C. If the wine is too warm, it will lose elegance; if it is too cold, it will be closed and less expressive. To reach the ideal temperature, leave the bottle at room temperature for about 20–30 minutes if it comes from a cool cellar.
3. Opening the Bottle
Use a double-lever corkscrew to ensure a controlled opening. Follow these steps:
- Carefully remove the capsule below the neck ring.
- Clean the rim of the neck and the cork with a dry cloth.
- Slowly insert the corkscrew spiral into the center of the cork and turn gently.
- Extract the cork without jolts or sudden movements to avoid breaking any dry parts of the cork.
For particularly old or fragile corks, use a twin-prong cork puller (such as a "Durand") to minimize the risk of breakage.
4. Inspection and First Taste
Immediately after opening, smell the cork to check for any defects. Pour a small amount of Barbaresco Riserva DOCG 'Basarin' 2017 - Punset into the glass and taste: the wine should display clean and complex aromas, without notes of cork or oxidation. If the wine appears closed or not very expressive, don't worry: decanting will help it fully reveal its character.
5. Decanting and Oxygenation
A wine of this structure and vintage greatly benefits from decanting. Proceed as follows:
- Slowly pour the wine into a carafe or decanter, keeping the bottle tilted and light behind the neck to check for any sediment.
- Stop pouring as soon as you notice any residue in the neck of the bottle.
- Allow the wine to rest in the decanter for 40–60 minutes before serving.
This process promotes oxygenation, softens the tannins, and allows the complex bouquet of Barbaresco to express itself in all its elegance.
6. Serving
Serve the wine in large, wide-bowled glasses, ideal for structured red wines like Barbaresco. Pour a moderate amount to allow for good oxygenation in the glass. During tasting, observe the typical garnet color and appreciate the aromas of ripe red fruits, withered violet, and sweet spices that characterize Barbaresco Riserva DOCG 'Basarin' 2017 - Punset.
7. Storage After Opening
If you do not consume the entire bottle, reseal it with an airtight stopper and store it in the refrigerator, in an upright position. To maintain the wine's quality:
- Consume within 48 hours of opening.
- Before the next tasting, allow the wine to gradually return to the ideal serving temperature.
By following these simple tips, you can enjoy every nuance and complexity of Barbaresco Riserva DOCG 'Basarin' 2017 - Punset in the best possible way.