Wines Barbaresco Perle de Nicola - Feyles - 2014

Perle de Nicola’s Barbaresco “Cuvée Feyles” 2014 hails from one of Italy’s most esteemed red wine appellations in the northern region of Piedmont. Barbaresco wines are traditionally crafted from Nebbiolo, a grape that gives rise to remarkably perfumed and structured reds, though the precise blend here is not specified. The 2014 vintage, cooler and challenging compared to warmer years, often yields wines with refined aromatics, improved finesse, and pronounced freshness. Vinification in this region typically involves extended ageing in wooden casks, which imparts further complexity and subtle tannic structure, allowing the nuanced fruit, floral, and earthy characters to develop gracefully.

The Piedmont region is renowned for its rolling hills and diverse soils composed largely of limestone, marl, and clay. The temperate continental climate, with warm summers and foggy autumns, promotes the slow, balanced ripening of Nebbiolo, encouraging the development of its hallmark aromas—rose petal, tart cherry, violet, and hints of truffle or dried herbs. Barbaresco, often described as a more elegant sibling to neighbouring Barolo, is typically approachable a bit younger but retains great potential for ageing. The region’s winemaking history is deeply entwined with family domaines and a tradition of quality, with Barbaresco achieving DOCG status since 1980.

This style of wine, with its subtle tannins, savoury depth, and energetic acidity, lends itself beautifully to classic Piedmontese cuisine. It pairs exceptionally well with truffled dishes, braised veal cheek, wild mushroom risotto or the region’s famed tajarin pasta with butter and sage. Aged cheeses such as Parmigiano Reggiano or Toma also make terrific companions, as do roasted game or lamb. For a more adventurous pairing, try it with roasted beetroot or dishes using walnuts and chestnuts, which subtly echo the wine’s earthy undertones.

To best enjoy this Barbaresco, allow the bottle to breathe for at least an hour before serving. Pour at a slightly cool room temperature, ideally between 16-18°C, to fully appreciate its aromatic complexity and elegant mouthfeel. This 2014 will reward contemplative sipping, whether alongside a meal or simply savoured on its own.