The grape variety Albarossa

Albarossa is a distinctive red grape variety originating from Piedmont, Northern Italy, the result of a crossing between Nebbiolo di Dronero and Barbera. Wines produced from Albarossa display a deep ruby colour, offering an expressive aromatic profile with notes of ripe red cherry, blackberry, and plum, complemented by floral hints of violet and subtle undertones of spice and earth. On the palate, Albarossa presents a medium to full body, lively acidity, and structured yet supple tannins, resulting in a balanced and elegantly textured wine. It often exudes flavours of dark berry fruits, blackcurrant, and a touch of liquorice, leading into a lingering, subtly mineral finish.

Albarossa’s primary home is in the Monferrato and Langhe areas of Piedmont, where winemakers value its resilience and potential for complexity. Typical styles range from fresh, fruit-forward young wines to more structured examples aged in oak, offering nuances of vanilla and sweet spice. Albarossa pairs exceptionally well with hearty Italian cuisine, such as rich meat ragù, roasted game, aged cheeses, and truffle-infused dishes, as its vibrant acidity and tannic structure cut beautifully through savoury, umami flavours.