Langhe Nebbiolo DOP 2021 Ricossa

A junior version of Barolo and Barbaresco: priced accordingly, and a much better bet than lower-end versions of those greats. Langhe Nebbiolo occupies an interesting legal status in that it is the only appellation available for top Barolo and Barbaresco to downgrade or declassify their wines, therefore offcuts and lesser batches end up in their Langhe wine at a cheaper price.

This example is classic: pale, leathery, dried fruits and flowers, a pinot-like delicacy and savoury layering. Charming dinner wine, let it breathe for an hour or so before drinking.