Wines Barbaresco Moccagatta - Basarin - 2020

Viniou Reviews

Moccagatta’s Barbaresco DOC "Cuvée Basarin" 2020 from Italy is a distinctive red wine crafted exclusively from Nebbiolo, the prestigious grape variety recognised for producing some of the most ethereal and age-worthy wines of the region. Hailing from the Basarin cru, this Barbaresco expresses all the poise and floral finesse that the subzone is known for. The 2020 vintage was marked by a balanced growing season with moderate warmth, allowing Nebbiolo to reach optimal ripeness without compromising its native acidity and complex aromatics. Vinification tends to be meticulous in Barbaresco, with gentle extraction and aging in large oak vessels, preserving both the grape’s transparent character and the subtlety of the terroir.

The Barbaresco area of Piedmont sits to the northeast of Alba, characterised by rolling hills and marl-limestone soils that impart finesse and structure to Nebbiolo. The region enjoys a continental climate with significant diurnal shifts, which supports both concentration and elegance in the resulting wines. Barbaresco was historically overshadowed by its neighbour Barolo, yet it is now celebrated for its earlier approachability, seductive aromatics and velvety tannins. The Basarin vineyard, in particular, is famous for producing exceptionally fragrant, detailed wines, often marked by notes of rose petal, cherry, wild berries, and subtle earthy undertones.

In terms of food pairings, Moccagatta’s Barbaresco 2020 is a versatile companion to refined Italian cuisine. Its structure and perfume compliment classic dishes such as tajarin al tartufo (egg pasta with truffle), agnolotti del plin (stuffed pasta from Piedmont), or a slow-braised veal shank. It also shines alongside earthy mushroom risotto, roasted game birds, or well-aged cheeses like Castelmagno. The wine’s balance of acidity and tannin makes it excellent for both savoury meats and umami-rich dishes.

For optimal enjoyment, decant the wine for an hour to let the aromas unwind and serve at 16–18°C. This allows the elegant florals, red fruit, and gentle spiciness to express themselves fully while taming the youthful tannic structure. A wine of this calibre will continue to evolve beautifully in the bottle if cellared under proper conditions.