Wines Barbaresco Castello di Neive - Albesani Santo Stefano - 2015

Castello di Neive’s Barbaresco Cuvée Albesani Santo Stefano 2015 is a remarkable red wine crafted exclusively from Nebbiolo, the emblematic grape of the region. Sourced from the revered Albesani vineyard, particularly the Santo Stefano cru, this cuvée captures the elegant complexity characteristic of great Barbaresco. The 2015 vintage benefitted from ideal weather, with a warm and balanced growing season, resulting in grapes of exceptional ripeness and aromatic purity. Traditional vinification methods—lengthy maceration and ageing in large oak casks—allow the Nebbiolo’s nuanced tannins and intricate aromas to flourish, offering layers of rose petal, red cherry, tar, and subtle spice.

The Barbaresco appellation lies in Piedmont, north-western Italy, a region defined by its rolling hills, ancient villages, and long-standing winemaking heritage. The area enjoys a continental climate—with cold winters, warm summers, and significant diurnal temperature variation—helping Nebbiolo achieve optimal ripeness while retaining vibrant acidity. The soils in Albesani are primarily calcareous clay, which imparts finesse and structure to the wines, and the history of winegrowing here extends back centuries, resulting in a deep understanding of vineyard site expressions and traditional cellar practices.

This Barbaresco’s graceful power and aromatic complexity make it an outstanding partner for refined dishes. Its firm yet polished tannins and savoury depth are perfect alongside traditional Piedmontese fare such as brasato al Barolo (braised beef in Barolo wine), tajarin with white truffle, or agnolotti del plin (local stuffed pasta). It also pairs beautifully with roast game birds, wild mushroom risotto, or a selection of aged cheeses such as Castelmagno and Parmigiano Reggiano.

For optimal enjoyment, decant the wine for at least an hour to allow its bouquet to unfurl. Serve at a temperature of 16-18°C; this will highlight both its aromatic finesse and its supple texture. The 2015 vintage, already showing impressive approachability, will continue to evolve gracefully in your cellar for several more years.