The origins of this aristocratic wine blend with legends of various origins: some narrate that the Gauls came to Italy because they were attracted by the wine of Barbaritium, of excellent qualityà while others claim that Barbaresco derives its name from the barbarian peoples who caused the fall of the Roman Empire. In ancient times the place where the village of Barbaresco stands today was covered by a forest so impenetrable that the Ligurians who took refuge there could find escape from the Roman cavalry. Precisely because it remained outside the boundaries of their domains, the Romans called it barbarica silva: from this expression comes the ancient toponym Barbaritium, which evolved into the present Barbaresco. Barbaresco è made from pure Nebbiolo and has an intense, brilliant color that fades from ruby red to garnet and a stimulating bouquet of still fruity yet ethereal scents that recall raspberry and red fruit jam, geranium and violet, but also green pepper, cinnamon and nutmeg, hay and wood, toasted hazelnut, vanilla and even anise. It must age at least two years, one of which is in oak wood, and after four it can’call itself “Reserve”.
It reaches its best between 5 and 10 years but can’be much longer-lived as well. There are traditional products on the market and others interpreted in a more international way with aging in small wood. The production area includes the entire territory of the municipalities of Barbaresco, Treiso, Neive and part of the municipality of Alba. È produced by small winemakers, prestigious cooperatives and also names of world excellence. The town of Barbaresco is home to the Regional Enoteca, where most of the wines produced in the appellation can be tasted.
