Wednesday, January 14, 2026

PIEDMONT IS AGAIN THE MOST UPSIDE POTENTIAL REGION IN THE WORLD FOR THE YEAR 2026

PIEDMONT CAPUT MUNDI 2026 (AGAIN!)

With this post, together with the previous one, the intention has been to broaden the range of subjects addressed by this blog. While it will remain firmly anchored to the history and ongoing evolution of Tenimenti Terre Imperiali — including key strategic and production choices such as barrel size, supplier selection, and quality standards — it has also been considered essential to extend the focus to the wider developments shaping the Piedmont wine landscape. Particular attention will be given to the territories in which the family estates are located: the Langhe, Roero, and Monferrato.

The article that follows is intended to provide readers with a broader perspective and, it is hoped, to convey the underlying value and direction of this blog. Living and working in a region identified for 2026 as offering the greatest growth potential in the global fine wine market — ahead of Champagne, Bourgogne, and Tuscany — is a source of genuine pride.

At the same time, the Piedmontese mindset is traditionally characterised by restraint and modesty: discreet, understated, and often inclined to downplay achievement. It is a cultural approach I recognise deeply and experience personally.

I have lived this sentiment first-hand. For many years, I regarded Barbaresco — and the ownership of the largest contiguous landholding in the area — as something entirely ordinary, little different from owning a car. Only later in life, admittedly quite late, as I began to understand the international wine world and engage with professionals whose lives and livelihoods are defined by wine, did I come to fully appreciate the significance of what I had in my hands.

When one is born into circumstances of comfort and inherited advantage, it is often difficult to recognise how benevolent fortune has been. Such awareness frequently emerges only when those privileges are questioned, challenged, or, in some cases, taken away.

That said, let us now turn to the core subject of this post. Almost by chance — and with little public emphasis within Piedmont itself — I came to discover that in November 2025 the Golden Vines® Report awarded Piedmont the gold medal globally, recognising it as the leading wine region with the greatest development potential.https://liquidicons.com/work/gerard-basset-global-fine-wine-report

The prestige of this recognition becomes evident when considering the profile of those who cast their votes. As outlined on its official website, The 2025 Golden Vines® Report marks the establishment of the Golden Vines® Academy, a definitive body comprising more than 800 qualified fine wine and rare spirits professionals. These experts participate in the Golden Vines® Report Survey and are responsible for determining the Golden Vines® Awards, internationally recognised distinctions that celebrate excellence in fine wine.

The 2025 Report covers market developments throughout 2025 and includes forward-looking assessments for 2026. Its findings are based on responses from over 830 leading global fine wine and rare spirits market participants, including 41 Masters of Wine, 31 Master Sommeliers, 58 Advanced Sommeliers, 37 ASI Diploma holders, and 204 professionals holding the DipWSET qualification.

Following Champagne’s leadership during the 2022–2024 period, Piedmont has emerged as the region most frequently identified as offering the greatest upside potential for 2026. Accounting for 20% of total responses, the Italian region is perceived as particularly well positioned, driven primarily by sustained global interest in Italian fine wines.

Champagne and Burgundy rank closely behind, with 17% and 14% of respondents respectively, reflecting continued confidence in the long-term demand for fine wines from these established regions.

Consistent with the findings of the 2024 Report, Tuscany follows with 12% of responses. Australian wine regions (9%), California (8%), and Bordeaux (6%) complete the group of regions expected to deliver solid performance in 2026. The remaining 14% of responses are distributed among other wine-producing regions and countries worldwide.

This strong performance is further reinforced by the inverse analysis, namely the assessment identifying the region most likely to experience a decline in 2026. In this case as well, Piedmont stands out as the most resilient wine region globally, ranking last on the list — a position that, in this context, should be read in reverse. This outcome underscores the high level of confidence that industry professionals place in the region’s long-term stability and prospects.

It is therefore fair to say that, looking ahead to 2026, Piedmont can truly be regarded as caput mundi of the global fine wine landscape.

Tuesday, January 13, 2026

2026 NEW GEOGRAPHICAL INDICATION: "PIEMONTE"

PIEMONT 'D FER

For Piedmont wines, the geographical indication “Piemonte” is being introduced, having already been approved by the Protection Consortia. Monchiero (Consorzio Piemonte Land) stated: “An unmissable opportunity to truly work as a team and promote our wine system in Italy and around the world.”

Conceived by the Consorzio Piemonte Land of Wine, the body that brings together the Piedmontese wine consortia and is chaired by Francesco Monchiero, the geographical indication “Piemonte”—which may be displayed on labels alongside the major Piedmontese wine denominations—represents one of the most ambitious projects in recent years for the promotion of Piedmont wine.

The idea underlying the project is clear: to promote the great Piedmontese denominations—from the Langhe to Monferrato, Asti, Roero and Alto Piemonte—not only through their individual identities, but also under a single “umbrella” geographical indication, namely Piemonte, capable of conveying at a glance the overall value of a region that represents one of the absolute excellences of Italian wine.

The need for the geographical indication “Piemonte” is also being driven by the evolution of international markets, where competition is increasingly intense and recognisability has become decisive. “Abroad, consumers and professionals often recognise the region before the individual DOC or DOCG. Piemonte is already synonymous with great wines: structuring this perception and turning it into a true communication project means giving greater strength to everyone,” emphasises the President of Piemonte Land of Wine.

The initiative envisages integrated promotional actions, ranging from coordinated participation in international trade fairs and events to communication and incoming activities, with the aim of presenting Piemonte as a mosaic of territories united by shared values: quality, identity, sustainability and a deep connection with the landscape. A landscape which, across the majority of its winegrowing areas, has been recognised since 2014—well ahead of many other prestigious Italian and European regions—as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This element further strengthens the global positioning of the geographical indication “Piemonte” and, as recent studies indicate, has already generated significant and promising tourist flows linked not only to wine production, but also to gastronomy and other territorial attractions.

“This is not just about marketing,” Monchiero is keen to point out. “It is also a strategic vision. Bringing the denominations together means being more effective in distant markets and engaging with international counterparts in a more structured way.”

The possibility of adding the geographical indication “Piemonte” to the labels of Piedmont wines—already approved and incorporated into the production regulations of almost all the Protection Consortia—will therefore represent a key moment to share the project with producers, consortia and industry professionals, gathering contributions and building a truly shared pathway. “We want the Piemonte indication to be a common home, an open project, capable of growing over time and supporting Piedmont wine in the challenges of the coming years,” Monchiero concludes.

With the “Piemonte” geographical indication project, the Consorzio Piemonte Land of Wine thus sends a clear message: the identity of great Piedmont wines lies in the enhancement of their differences, but also in the ability to present themselves united, speaking to the world with a single voice.

I believe this is a sound project and one that can yield tangible visibility benefits in the medium term. Knowing the producers, I am confident that they will be reluctant, particularly for their most prestigious wines, to add an additional designation—namely “Piemonte”—which could be used on a Barolo or Barbaresco as well as on a wine from the Pinerolese area (west of Turin, towards the Alps).

However, if one looks at France, denominations such as “Champagne” or “Bourgogne” explicitly refer to their respective regions of production and, moreover, extend over very large areas.

We have checked the Barbaresco regulations, and at present, the addition of the designation “Piemonte” does not appear to be permitted.

The Barbera d’Alba regulations also do not specify anything in this regard. It would be interesting to understand whether a wine could therefore be labelled, for example, as “Barolo DOCG Piemonte” or “Barolo Piemonte DOCG”. The second version certainly sounds much better.

VIGNA CONTESSA ELZBIETA - LA MORRA. BAROLO TERROIR

VIGNA CONTESSA ELZBIETA

LA MORRA

Among the vineyards of outstanding prestige owned by the Tenimenti Terre Imperiali is also the Vigna Contessa Elżbieta, located in the Municipality of La Morra (CN), dedicated to the production of Barolo DOCG Cru Berri. This is a parcel of land facing south–southwest, with the distinctive feature of having no physical barriers to the west (such as a hill), other than the Alps, with Mount Monviso in the background. As a result, during the long summer evenings the sun sets on the horizon only when it dips behind the Alps in France, with nothing in front of it but the plain of Cherasco.

This is a highly distinctive and uncommon location in the Langhe, where hills typically follow one another like waves, creating a landscape of extraordinary beauty but also a system of shading that alters the quality of the grapes.

The vineyard owes its name to Countess Elżbieta of a very old Polish noble family, a direct descendant of Aleramo and of Emperor Otto I the Great, through Marie Louise of Habsburg, wife of Napoleon and later Duchess of Parma. It is, in effect, a journey through land and time and, ultimately, a return to origins, when more than a thousand years ago the ancestors of Countess Elżbieta ruled these lands. Vigna Contessa Elżbieta lies within the Barolo production area, in its north-western sector (Municipality of La Morra), where the soils are more similar to those found in the Barbaresco area.

In detail (see the map bottom), the Municipality of La Morra comprises 39 officially recognized crus, characterized by differing exposures, geomorphological features, and qualitative potential. In particular, the crus shown on the right-hand side of the map have a predominantly eastern exposure, while those located to the west of the town of La Morra are mainly west-facing.

From an oenological and viticultural perspective, a particularly significant aspect is that Cru Berri runs directly alongside the Tanaro River, without the presence of natural barriers. This proximity—clearly visible from Vigna Contessa Elzbieta—plays a meaningful role in shaping the vineyard’s mesoclimate. The moderating and cooling effect generated by the river positively influences vine physiology and grape ripening dynamics.

The Tanaro River effectively functions as a natural climatic corridor extending from the holding in La Morra towards the Asili Valley, where the Tenuta Ca’ Grossa is located, creating a gradual transition zone between the Barolo and Barbaresco areas.

As a result, compared with crus situated further east—both within the Municipality of La Morra and, more broadly, within the Barolo production zone—Vigna Contessa Elzbieta benefits from a distinctive temperate and well-ventilated microclimate. This is particularly advantageous during hot growing seasons, as well as during wetter periods, when prevailing west–east air currents facilitate rapid drying of the canopy and soil after rainfall, reducing drying times by approximately 70%. Such conditions significantly limit the development of fungal and pathogenic pressures on the grapes, especially during the critical pre-harvest phase, thereby contributing to higher sanitary quality and greater precision in phenolic and technological ripeness.

Pedoclimatic effects of Cru Berri
Left: Inflow of tempered air during winter. Right: Ventilated air currents along a west–east axis

With regard to geological formation, Cru Berri can be traced—both in the presence of young soils (less eroded, nutrient-poor and highly permeable) and evolved soils (characterized by greater mobility of nutrients)—to two distinct soil typologies: the Cassano–Spinola Sandy Formation and the Laminated Fossil Marls of Sant’Agata.

Also noteworthy is the considerable altitude of Cru Berri, which ranges primarily from 350 to nearly 500 metres above sea level, an elevation particularly well suited to viticulture even in seasons characterized by extreme summer heat.

Specifically, Vigna Contessa Elzbieta is located in the highest part of Cru Berri, on evolved soils of the Cassano–Spinola Sandy Formation, characterized by gentler, less steep hillsides.

This type of soil has the following characteristics:

The high sand content (47%) allows the wines produced in this area to yield grapes with intense aromas of cherry, plum and tobacco, as well as evolving notes of rose and violet—characteristics similarly found in the Cannubi Cru of Barolo, where the sand content reaches 45%.

Monday, January 12, 2026

PODERE SAN ROCCO DEGLI ALERAMICI

- CASTELNUOVO CALCEA -

The Podere San Rocco degli Aleramici is located in Castelnuovo Calcea (Province of Asti) and represents the eastern boundary of the Terre Imperiali estates and the only one in the Province od Asti. More specifically, it lies in the central part of the Nizza DOCG production area, on the summit of a hill (the so-called “sorì”), with a predominantly southern exposure, ideal for producing a wine particularly rich in tannins. Within the estate there is an old ciabot currently being converted into a small family votive chapel, while at the foot of the property stands the Church of San Rocco, from which the estate itself takes its name.

The coat of arms representing this estate is that of the House of the Palaiologoi, descendants of the Aleramici and Lords of Monferrato. The lineage of the Aleramici, founders of Monferrato, thus passed through the House of the Palaiologoi, then to the House of Gonzaga, and subsequently to the Gonzaga-Nevers branch, where it became extinct as an autonomous and direct title in 1707. The line of descent, however, passed to the House of Lorraine and from them to the Habsburg-Lorraine dynasty, then to the Princes of Montenuovo, followed by the Counts Wielopolski-Gonzaga, and finally to the Counts Tarnowski and, from them, to the Counts Savasta Fiore Tarnowski. Indeed, one of the two vineyards that make up the estate is dedicated to Count Juliusz Tarnowski.

Accordingly, at the time of the transfer of ownership of the estate, its name changed from Podere San Rocco to Podere San Rocco degli Aleramici, as it had returned “to its origins,” that is, to the direct descendants of Aleramo, first Lord of Monferrato, by appointment of Emperor Otto I.

With regard to agronomic aspects, the Podere San Rocco degli Aleramici lies in the central belt of the area traditionally suited to the cultivation of Barbera d’Asti DOCG, in its highest expression, namely Nizza DOCG, within the Gavelli Cru (MGA). More specifically, this belt of territory runs from west to east, starting in Agliano Terme, passing through Castelnuovo Calcea, and reaching Nizza Monferrato.

This area, so distinctly dedicated to viticulture, was in fact included in the core zone of the UNESCO World Heritage Site designated in 2014 (see map underneath).

Here under, the Podere San Rocco degli Aleramici in comparison with the Gavelli Cru, located in the Municipality of Castelnuovo Calcea.

Within the Podere San Rocco degli Aleramici are located (sse map here under):

Vigna Comes Juliusz Tarnowski (known as “Il Conte”), Nizza DOCG – Gavelli Cru (in blue)
Vigna Bricco di San Rocco, Nizza DOCG – Gavelli Cru (in red)

From a geological standpoint, the Podere San Rocco degli Aleramici can be located within the “Central Sector – Bricco di Nizza”, composed mainly of sandy marls and clays. This sector is common to all three municipalities with the highest concentration of Crus, indicating the maximum level of expressiveness that this area imparts to Barbera d’Asti destined to become Nizza DOCG.

In fact, the Central Sector is further subdivided into the following subzones:

Moasca – San Marzano Oliveto
Bricco di Nizza
Vinchio and Vaglio Serra
Boidi Mombaruzzo
Agliano Terme

The Podere San Rocco degli Aleramici is located in the Bricco di Nizza Subzone, as defined in the map “I Cru di Enogea – Nizza” (Alessandro Masnaghetti Editore), which is described as a “famous and highly sought-after area” and as a zone characterized by “rapid changes in exposure”, producing “wines of substance and balance.”

In turn, the Bricco di Nizza Subzone is composed of several Crus, specifically:

Gavelli Cru (with the San Rocco microzone)
Castello – La Corte Cru
Bric del Marchese Cru
Vialta Cru
Vallarasca Cru
Bricco di Nizza Cru (with the microzones Bric di Santa Margherita and Bric Ghezza)
Cremosina Annunziata Cru

Yet all these technical and historical descriptions fail to convey the sense of peace that this vineyard imparts: with its 360-degree view, it stretches as far as Mount Monviso—the mountain of the Piedmontese—which serves as a constant point of orientation wherever one may stand and can be seen from the various properties of the Terre Imperiali Estates.

PODERE ANTICO DI MONTEFORCHE -

The Podere Antico di Monteforche is located in the Municipality of Govone (CN), the easternmost municipality of the Roero area, although the estate does not lie entirely within its administrative boundaries. An examination of the official map of the Roero Crus shows that the Monteforche Cru is positioned at the north-eastern apex of the production area for Roero D.O.C.G. and Roero Arneis D.O.C.G. wines.

This historically recognised Cru extends across the municipalities of Govone and Priocca, as does the estate itself. The portion falling within the Municipality of Govone is characterised by a predominantly east-facing exposure, while the slope located within the territory of Priocca features a mainly west-facing aspect, resulting in differentiated mesoclimatic conditions within the same Cru.

The estate is divided into two vineyard parcels: a large, continuous plot forming a natural amphitheatre with a prevailing eastern exposure, and—approximately 30 metres away—a second parcel situated on the crest of the hill known as Monteforche. This upper parcel benefits from a full 360° exposure and extends beyond the ridgeline, entering the officially designated Monteforche Cru area within the Municipality of Priocca.

When examining in detail the Crus located within the Municipality of Govone, three are identified, of which Monteforche is the smallest, if its extension into the Municipality of Priocca is not taken into account.

The Podere Antico di Monteforche takes its name from the fact that it extends all the way to the summit of the hill (somewhat imprecisely referred to as a “monte”) which forms the core and central nucleus of the Monteforche Cru and represents one of the most panoramic sites in the entire Roero area. At this summit lies the Vigna Bricco di Monteforche.

It is worth recalling the origin of this distinctive name. History records that, precisely where the Vigna Bricco di Monteforche is now located, in the year 1228 the inhabitants of Priocca, Govone and San Pietro were punished—most likely by being hanged on gallows (“forche,” hence the name). These communities had defied the orders of the Bishop of Asti, lord of these lands, by deciding to found a village on Monte Stella, a hill immediately adjacent to Monteforche. The rebellion was harshly suppressed: the settlement on Monte Stella was razed to the ground, and the leaders of the uprising were taken to the nearby hill—later known as Monteforche—where they were executed and left clearly visible, given the height of the hill, to the inhabitants of the three rebellious municipalities.

In remembrance of this event and to bring peace to this sacred place, Podere Antico di Monteforche has adopted as its emblem the coat of arms of Emperor Frederick II of Swabia, a direct ancestor of the current owners. This emblem stands as a symbol of forgiveness and recognition of the spirit of those villagers who, in honour of their Emperor, sought to establish a new community. Eight centuries later, in commemoration of this historical episode, this edict is recited in the Vigna Bricco di Monteforche on the night of Saint John every year:

IN NOMINE IESU CHRISTI

AB FEDERICO SECUNDO GRATIA DEI IMPERATORE

NOS DESCENDENTES

DESCENDENTIBUS GENTIUM PRIOCCAE AC GOVONIS OMNIBUS

VENIAM CONCEDIMUS AD INFINITUM

UT IN PACE OMNES GENTES VIVEANT ET IN EA MANEANT

To commemorate this episode, we present a ballad "Ij pendolèr ëd Mòntforche" that recounts the sad events of the past, in Piedmontese, in the Langhe-Roero dialect, which we believe is important to preserve and share more widely.

Ij pendolèr ëd Mòntforche*
Gli Appesi di Monteforche
The Hanged of Monteforche

Sota ‘l ciel cup ëd l’invern, Mòntforche a se druva,
Sotto il cielo cupo dell’inverno, Monteforche si scopre,
Under the heavy winter sky, Monteforche reveals itself,

bric piantà tra Prioca e Govon*, sombre e spense.
collina piantata tra Prioca e Govon, ombrosa e spenta.*
a hill planted between Priocca and Govon, shadowed and still.*

Tra ël filà ëd vign e l’ombraja dël vent freid,
Tra i filari di vigna e l’ombra del vento freddo,
Among the vineyard rows and the cold wind’s shade,

a se spànd ant la smòrgia* ël ramènt dij martir.
si spande nella bruma il ricordo dei martiri.*
in the mist spreads the memory of the martyrs.

Tre neuit e tre dì, i ribel a son ste tàssà*,
Tre notti e tre giorni, i ribelli furono appesi,*
Three nights and three days, the rebels were hung,

tra patiment gros e ël silensi d’arònd,
tra grande sofferenza e il silenzio tutt’intorno,
between great suffering and the surrounding silence,

ant ël frussié dël bòsch, ansima a la tèra neira
tra fruscii di bosco sopra la terra nera
among the rustle of the woods above the dark earth,

piòrnd desperà a la lùs fieula dla sèira.
piangendo disperati alla luce fioca della sera
weeping desperately in the dim evening light.

Për anco, quand la neuit a ven trista e lada,
Ancora oggi, quando la notte arriva triste e pesante,
Even today, when the night comes sad and heavy,

sima ‘l bric, a s’èveinta un pendolèr ant l’oscurità
sulla cima del colle, si intravede un appeso nell’oscurità
on the hilltop, a hanged figure can be glimpsed in the darkness

e tra ël vent che stròfla e la spira che strìa,
e tra il vento che sferza e il respiro che stride,
and between the whipping wind and the creaking breath,

la crida “Piëta!” long le valade a stràssia.
grida “Pietà!” trascinandosi lungo le vallate
it cries “Pietà!” echoing through the valleys.

Adess i vign a se slonga sota ‘l ciel palid,
Ora le vigne si allungano sotto il cielo pallido,
Now the vineyards stretch beneath the pale sky,

e ‘l còr a frisson-a, e ‘l rament a s’arcòrda.
e il cuore rabbrividisce, e la memoria ricorda,
and hearts shiver as memory stirs.

Mòntforche piantà, imperturbà ant ël silensi,
Monteforche resta piantato, imperturbabile nel silenzio,
Monteforche stands planted, undisturbed in the silence,

ma ij lor spirì a sbrilo për ëdcò ant ël filà.
ma i loro spiriti brillano ancora una volta tra i filari,
but their spirits once more shine among the rows.

Notes

smòrgia: a typical Langhe term for thin mist or fog, evoking the haze that slowly spreads among the vineyards and hills of the Langhe.
tàssà: in this context, it means “hung,” referring to the executed rebels.
pendolèr: refers to the hanged, not a mechanical pendulum. It represents the bodies swinging in the wind, transformed by popular memory into shadowy presences and symbols of the violence suffered, and of memory that continues to live.
Govon: typical Langhe pronunciation barely perceives the “V,” which disappears between the two O’s, pronounced as a single long “U” sound.

Today, this historic and passionate place is part of the Podere Antico di Monteforche, so named because the Cru takes its name from this iconic hill—a small mountain that forms part of the Tenimenti Terre Imperiali. The estate embodies centuries of tradition, history, and viticultural excellence in the heart of the Roero.

Within the Podere Antico di Monteforche, five distinctive vineyards tell the story of the land:

Vigna Bricco di Monteforche – Barbera d’Alba D.O.C. and Roero D.O.C.G. “Cru Monteforche” (light blue): a symbol of strength and tradition.

Vigna Antica di Monteforche – Roero Arneis D.O.C.G. “Cru Monteforche” (yellow): capturing the elegance and freshness of the Arneis grape.

Vigna Romantica di Monteforche – Roero Arneis D.O.C.G. “Cru Monteforche” (red): a vineyard that expresses the poetic charm of the Roero hills.

Vigna Reale di Monteforche – Roero Arneis D.O.C.G., Roero D.O.C.G. “Cru Monteforche”, and Langhe Riesling D.O.C. (purple): a majestic blend of tradition and experimentation.

Vigna Fontanelle di Monteforche – Roero Arneis D.O.C.G. “Cru Monteforche” (blue, currently under planting): the newest addition, promising a bright future for the estate.

At the center of the map above, one can see a small farmhouse (commonly referred to in the Piedmontese dialect as a “ciabot”), which gives the place the designation of “Podere.” In reality, there is consideration of upgrading this estate in classification to the rank of “Tenuta” by including the family house in Priocca together with the historic cellars. The only factor that works against this change in category is the lack of contiguity between the house and the land, unlike what is the case with Tenuta Ca’ Grossa.

Adjacent to the vineyards indicated on the map, there are other plots of land under the same ownership: some available for the planting of new vineyards, and others cultivated with hazelnut and apricot trees.

Sunday, January 11, 2026

BARBARESCO: PRODUCTION REGULATIONS - BARBARESCO PRODUKTIONSVORSCHRIFTEN - CAHIER DES CHARGES DE PRODUCTION

Some time ago, I set out to understand whether official production regulations for French wines actually existed and, if so, where they could be found. My search led nowhere. That experience made me realize that the same issue likely affects Italian wine regulations as well: for those who do not speak Italian, accessing these documents can be surprisingly difficult.

This is the reason behind the publication of the Barbaresco DOCG production regulations in English, German and French. The regulations for Barolo, Nizza, Roero, Roero Arneis, Barbera d’Alba, Langhe Riesling, and Nebbiolo d’Alba will naturally follow—covering all the wines produced at the Terre Imperiali estates.

PRODUCTION REGULATIONS

CONTROLLED AND GUARANTEED DESIGNATION OF ORIGIN (DOCG)

“BARBARESCO”

Approved as DOC by Presidential Decree 23.04.1966 – Official Gazette No. 145 of 14.06.1966

Approved as DOCG by Presidential Decree 03.10.1980 – Official Gazette No. 242 of 03.09.1981

Subsequently amended by various Ministerial Decrees (2007–2015)

Article 1

Name of the denomination and types of wine

The Controlled and Guaranteed Designation of Origin “Barbaresco” is reserved for red wines that meet the conditions and requirements set out in these production regulations, for the following types:
- “Barbaresco”
- “Barbaresco Riserva”
- “Barbaresco” and “Barbaresco Riserva” with one of the “Additional Geographical Indications” listed in Article 7, to which the mention “Vigna” followed by the relevant toponym may be added under the conditions set out in Article 7, paragraph 5.
The boundaries of the “Additional Geographical Indications” are defined in the annex attached to these production regulations.

Article 2

Grape variety (Ampelographic base)

Wines bearing the DOCG “Barbaresco” designation must be produced exclusively from grapes of the Nebbiolo variety.

Article 3

Area of grape production

The grape-growing area suitable for the production of DOCG “Barbaresco” wines includes the territories already defined by Ministerial Decree of 31 August 1933 and comprises the entire territory of the municipalities of Barbaresco, Neive, Treiso, and the part of the hamlet San Rocco Senodelvio (now part of the municipality of Alba), all within the Province of Cuneo.

Article 4

Viticultural regulations

The environmental and cultivation conditions of vineyards intended for DOCG “Barbaresco” production must be those traditionally used in the area and suitable to confer the specific quality characteristics to the grapes and the resulting wine.
In particular:
- Soils: clayey, calcareous, or combinations thereof
- Topography: hilly; valley floors, flat, damp, or poorly exposed areas are excluded
- Altitude: not higher than 550 m above sea level
- Exposure: suitable for proper grape ripening, excluding north-facing slopes
- Planting density: at least 3,500 vines per hectare for new plantings or replantings
- Training system: vertical trellis (controspalliera)
- Pruning system: Guyot
- Any form of forcing is prohibited
Maximum grape yields and minimum natural alcoholic strength:
- Barbaresco / Barbaresco Riserva:
  - Maximum yield: 8 t/ha
  - Minimum natural alcohol: 12.00% vol
- With Additional Geographical Indication and “Vigna”:
  - Maximum yield: 7.2 t/ha
  - Minimum natural alcohol: 12.50% vol
For vineyards less than seven years old used for “MGA + Vigna” wines, reduced yields apply from the 3rd to the 6th year.
In favorable vintages, yields may exceed the limits by up to 20%, provided wine yield limits are respected.
The Region of Piedmont may reduce yields in unfavorable vintages.
Temporary suspension or regulation of new vineyard registrations may be established to maintain market balance.

Article 5

Vinification regulations

Vinification and mandatory ageing must take place within the production area. Authorization may be granted for facilities in the municipality of Alba or other historically established wineries.
Maximum grape-to-wine yield:
- 70%, corresponding to 56 hl/ha
- After ageing: 68%, corresponding to 54.4 hl/ha
Mandatory ageing periods:
- Barbaresco: 26 months, of which at least 9 months in wood
- Barbaresco Riserva: 50 months, of which at least 9 months in wood
- Ageing starts on 1 November of the harvest year
Release for consumption:
- Barbaresco: from 1 January of the 3rd year after harvest
- Barbaresco Riserva: from 1 January of the 5th year after harvest

Article 6

Characteristics at release

At the time of marketing, wines must have:

Color: garnet red
Aroma: intense and characteristic
Taste: dry, full-bodied, harmonious
Minimum alcohol: 12.50% vol
Total acidity: minimum 4.5 g/l
Minimum non-reducing extract: 22.0 g/l

The same parameters apply to Barbaresco Riserva.

Article 7

Designation and presentation

The DOCG name may be followed by one of the officially recognized Additional Geographical Indications (MGAs) (full list included in the original annex).
The use of additional qualifiers such as “extra”, “fine”, “selected”, “old”, etc., is prohibited.
References to brand names or company names are permitted provided they are not misleading.
The MGA must appear immediately below the name “Barbaresco” and must not be larger in size.
The mention “Vigna” followed by a toponym is allowed only in conjunction with an MGA and must meet strict traceability and vinification requirements.
The vintage year is mandatory on the label.

Article 8

Packaging

Wines must be bottled in traditional-shaped, dark glass bottles with legally permitted closures.
Bottle sizes must be legally permitted and not smaller than 375 ml (excluding 2-liter bottles).
Packaging that may mislead consumers or harm the reputation of the wine is prohibited.
Larger traditional formats (6–15 liters) may be authorized for promotional purposes.

Article 9

Link with the geographical environment

The Barbaresco area lies in the Langhe hills, characterized by Tortonian marl and sandy soils, ideal for Nebbiolo cultivation. The interaction between soil, climate, and traditional viticultural practices produces wines with garnet color, ethereal aromas, balanced tannins, and elegance, distinguishing Barbaresco from neighboring denominations.

Article 10

Control body

Valoritalia S.r.l.

Authorized control body appointed by the Italian Ministry of Agriculture, responsible for annual verification of compliance with these production regulations throughout the entire production chain.

PRODUKTIONSVORSCHRIFTEN

KONTROLLIERTE UND GARANTIERTE URSPRUNGSBEZEICHNUNG (DOCG)

BARBARESCO

Als DOC genehmigt durch Präsidialdekret vom 23.04.1966 – Amtsblatt Nr. 145 vom 14.06.1966
Als DOCG genehmigt durch Präsidialdekret vom 03.10.1980 – Amtsblatt Nr. 242 vom 03.09.1981
Geändert durch verschiedene Ministerialdekrete (2007–2015)

Artikel 1

Bezeichnung und Weintypen

Die kontrollierte und garantierte Ursprungsbezeichnung „Barbaresco“ ist roten Weinen vorbehalten, die den in diesen Produktionsvorschriften festgelegten Bedingungen und Anforderungen entsprechen, und zwar für folgende Typen:
- „Barbaresco“
- „Barbaresco Riserva“
- „Barbaresco“ und „Barbaresco Riserva“ mit einer der in Artikel 7 genannten zusätzlichen geografischen Angaben, denen unter den in Artikel 7 Absatz 5 festgelegten Bedingungen die Angabe „Vigna“ mit dem entsprechenden Toponym hinzugefügt werden kann.
Die Abgrenzung der zusätzlichen geografischen Angaben ist im Anhang zu diesen Produktionsvorschriften festgelegt.

Artikel 2

Ampelographische Grundlage

Die Weine mit der kontrollierten und garantierten Ursprungsbezeichnung „Barbaresco“ müssen ausschließlich aus Trauben der Rebsorte Nebbiolo gewonnen werden.

Artikel 3

Erzeugungsgebiet der Trauben

Das für die Erzeugung der DOCG-Weine „Barbaresco“ geeignete Anbaugebiet umfasst die bereits durch Ministerialdekret vom 31. August 1933 abgegrenzten Gebiete und schließt das gesamte Gebiet der Gemeinden Barbaresco, Neive, Treiso sowie den Teil der Fraktion San Rocco Senodelvio (heute Teil der Gemeinde Alba) ein, alle gelegen in der Provinz Cuneo.

Artikel 4

Vorschriften für den Weinbau

Die Umwelt- und Anbaubedingungen der für die DOCG-Produktion „Barbaresco“ bestimmten Weinberge müssen den traditionellen Bedingungen des Gebietes entsprechen und geeignet sein, den Trauben und dem daraus gewonnenen Wein die spezifischen Qualitätsmerkmale zu verleihen.
Insbesondere müssen die Anbaubedingungen folgende Anforderungen erfüllen:
- Böden: ton- und kalkhaltig oder Kombinationen davon
- Lage: Hügellagen; Talböden, feuchte, ebene oder unzureichend sonnige Flächen sind ausgeschlossen
- Höhenlage: nicht über 550 m ü. M.
- Exposition: geeignet für eine optimale Traubenreife, unter Ausschluss von Nordlagen
- Pflanzdichte: bei Neuanpflanzungen oder Wiederbepflanzungen mindestens 3.500 Rebstöcke pro Hektar
- Erziehungssystem: Spaliererziehung (Controspalliera)
- Schnittsystem: Guyot
- Jegliche Form der Ertragssteigerung durch künstliche Maßnahmen ist verboten
Höchstertrag an Trauben und natürlicher Mindestalkoholgehalt:
- Barbaresco / Barbaresco Riserva:
  - Maximaler Ertrag: 8 t/ha
  - Mindestalkoholgehalt (natürlich): 12,00 % vol
- Mit zusätzlicher geografischer Angabe und „Vigna“:
  - Maximaler Ertrag: 7,2 t/ha
  - Mindestalkoholgehalt (natürlich): 12,50 % vol
Für Weinberge mit weniger als sieben Jahren gelten für Weine mit MGA + Vigna abgestufte Ertragsgrenzen vom dritten bis zum sechsten Jahr.
In günstigen Jahrgängen dürfen die Erträge um bis zu 20 % überschritten werden, sofern die Grenzen für die Umwandlung von Trauben in Wein eingehalten werden.
In ungünstigen Jahrgängen kann die Region Piemont niedrigere Erträge festlegen.
Zur Marktregulierung kann die Region zeitweilige Beschränkungen oder Aussetzungen für Neuanpflanzungen oder Wiederbepflanzungen beschließen.

Artikel 5

Vorschriften für die Weinbereitung

Die Weinbereitung und die vorgeschriebene Reifung müssen innerhalb des Erzeugungsgebietes erfolgen. Ausnahmen können für Betriebe im Gemeindegebiet von Alba oder für historisch tätige Betriebe genehmigt werden.
Maximaler Ertrag Trauben/Wein:
- 70 %, entsprechend 56 hl/ha
- Nach der Reifung: 68 %, entsprechend 54,4 hl/ha
Mindestlagerzeiten:
- Barbaresco: 26 Monate, davon mindestens 9 Monate im Holz
- Barbaresco Riserva: 50 Monate, davon mindestens 9 Monate im Holz
- Beginn der Reifung: 1. November des Erntejahres
Freigabe zum Verbrauch:
- Barbaresco: ab 1. Januar des dritten Jahres nach der Lese
- Barbaresco Riserva: ab 1. Januar des fünften Jahres nach der Lese

Artikel 6

Eigenschaften bei der Vermarktung

Zum Zeitpunkt des Inverkehrbringens müssen die Weine folgende Eigenschaften aufweisen:

Farbe: granatrot
Geruch: intensiv und charakteristisch
Geschmack: trocken, vollmundig, harmonisch
Mindestalkoholgehalt: 12,50 % vol
Gesamtsäure: mindestens 4,5 g/l
Mindestextrakt (zuckerfrei): 22,0 g/l

Dieselben Parameter gelten für Barbaresco Riserva.

Artikel 7

Bezeichnung und Aufmachung

Der Name der DOCG kann durch eine der offiziell anerkannten zusätzlichen geografischen Angaben (MGAs) ergänzt werden (vollständige Liste im Anhang).
Zusätze wie „extra“, „fein“, „ausgewählt“, „alt“ oder ähnliche Bezeichnungen sind verboten.
Angaben zu Marken- oder Firmennamen sind zulässig, sofern sie nicht irreführend sind.
Die zusätzliche geografische Angabe muss unmittelbar unter der Bezeichnung „Barbaresco“ stehen und darf nicht größer sein als diese.
Die Angabe „Vigna“ mit Toponym ist nur in Verbindung mit einer MGA zulässig und unterliegt strengen Vorschriften hinsichtlich Rückverfolgbarkeit, Vinifikation und Abfüllung.
Die Angabe des Jahrgangs ist verpflichtend.

Artikel 8

Abfüllung

Die Weine müssen in traditionellen, dunklen Glasflaschen mit gesetzlich zulässigen Verschlüssen abgefüllt werden.
Zulässige Flaschengrößen gemäß Gesetz, jedoch nicht unter 0,375 l (2-Liter-Flaschen sind ausgeschlossen).
Irreführende oder das Ansehen des Weines beeinträchtigende Verpackungen sind verboten.
Traditionelle Großformate (6–15 l) können zu Werbezwecken genehmigt werden.

Artikel 9

Zusammenhang mit dem geografischen Umfeld

Das Anbaugebiet Barbaresco liegt in den Hügeln der Langhe, die durch tortonische Mergel- und Sandböden geprägt sind. Das Zusammenspiel von Boden, Klima und traditioneller Bewirtschaftung des Nebbiolo ergibt Weine von granatroter Farbe, ätherischem Duft, ausgewogener Tanninstruktur und großer Eleganz.

Artikel 10

Kontrollstelle

Valoritalia S.r.l.
Von dem italienischen Ministerium für Landwirtschaft als Kontrollstelle anerkannt und zuständig für die jährliche Überprüfung der Einhaltung dieser Produktionsvorschriften entlang der gesamten Produktionskette.

CAHIER DES CHARGES DE PRODUCTION

APPELLATION D’ORIGINE CONTRÔLÉE ET GARANTIE (DOCG)

« BARBARESCO »

Approuvée comme DOC par Décret du Président de la République du 23/04/1966 – Journal Officiel n°145 du 14/06/1966
Approuvée comme DOCG par Décret du Président de la République du 03/10/1980 – Journal Officiel n°242 du 03/09/1981
Modifiée par divers décrets ministériels (2007–2015)

Article 1

Dénomination et types de vin

L’appellation d’origine contrôlée et garantie « Barbaresco » est réservée aux vins rouges répondant aux conditions et exigences prévues par le présent cahier des charges, pour les types suivants :
- « Barbaresco »
- « Barbaresco Riserva »
- « Barbaresco » et « Barbaresco Riserva » avec l’une des mentions géographiques supplémentaires visées à l’article 7, auxquelles peut être ajoutée la mention « Vigna » suivie du toponyme correspondant, selon les conditions prévues à l’article 7, paragraphe 5.
La délimitation des mentions géographiques supplémentaires est définie dans l’annexe jointe au présent cahier des charges.

Article 2

Encépagement

Les vins bénéficiant de l’appellation d’origine contrôlée et garantie « Barbaresco » doivent être élaborés exclusivement à partir de raisins issus du cépage Nebbiolo.

Article 3

Aire de production des raisins

L’aire de production des raisins destinés à l’élaboration des vins DOCG « Barbaresco » comprend les territoires déjà délimités par décret ministériel du 31 août 1933 et inclut l’ensemble des communes de Barbaresco, Neive et Treiso, ainsi que la partie du hameau San Rocco Senodelvio, anciennement rattachée à la commune de Barbaresco et aujourd’hui intégrée à la commune d’Alba, toutes situées dans la province de Coni (Cuneo).

Article 4

Règles de conduite du vignoble

Les conditions environnementales et culturales des vignobles destinés à la production du DOCG « Barbaresco » doivent être celles traditionnellement pratiquées dans la zone et aptes à conférer aux raisins et au vin qui en est issu les caractéristiques spécifiques de qualité.
En particulier, les conditions de culture doivent répondre aux exigences suivantes :
- Sols : argileux, calcaires ou leurs combinaisons
- Situation : coteaux ; sont strictement exclus les fonds de vallée, terrains plats, humides ou insuffisamment exposés
- Altitude : ne dépassant pas 550 mètres au-dessus du niveau de la mer
- Exposition : adaptée à une maturation optimale des raisins, à l’exclusion des versants nord
- Densité de plantation : pour les nouvelles plantations ou replantations, au minimum 3 500 pieds par hectare
- Mode de conduite : palissage vertical (controspalliera)
- Système de taille : Guyot
- Toute pratique de forçage est interdite
Rendement maximal en raisins et titre alcoométrique naturel minimal :
- Barbaresco / Barbaresco Riserva :
  - Rendement maximal : 8 t/ha
  - Titre alcoométrique naturel minimal : 12,00 % vol
- Avec mention géographique supplémentaire et « Vigna » :
  - Rendement maximal : 7,2 t/ha
  - Titre alcoométrique naturel minimal : 12,50 % vol
Pour les vignobles âgés de moins de sept ans destinés à la production de vins avec mention géographique supplémentaire et « Vigna », des rendements réduits sont prévus de la troisième à la sixième année.
Lors des millésimes favorables, les rendements peuvent dépasser les limites susmentionnées jusqu’à 20 %, à condition que les limites de transformation raisin/vin soient respectées.
En cas de millésime défavorable, la Région Piémont peut fixer des rendements inférieurs.
Afin d’assurer l’équilibre du marché, la Région Piémont peut suspendre ou réglementer temporairement les nouvelles inscriptions de vignobles aptes à la DOCG Barbaresco.

Article 5

Règles de vinification

La vinification et l’élevage obligatoire des vins DOCG « Barbaresco » doivent être effectués à l’intérieur de l’aire de production visée à l’article 3. Des dérogations peuvent être accordées pour des établissements situés sur le territoire de la commune d’Alba ou pour des caves historiquement actives.
Rendement maximal raisin/vin :
- 70 %, correspondant à 56 hl/ha
- Après élevage obligatoire : 68 %, correspondant à 54,4 hl/ha
Durées minimales d’élevage :
- Barbaresco : 26 mois, dont au moins 9 mois en bois
- Barbaresco Riserva : 50 mois, dont au moins 9 mois en bois
- Le calcul de l’élevage commence le 1er novembre de l’année de la récolte
Mise à la consommation :
- Barbaresco : à partir du 1er janvier de la troisième année suivant la vendange
- Barbaresco Riserva : à partir du 1er janvier de la cinquième année suivant la vendange

Article 6

Caractéristiques à la consommation

Au moment de la mise sur le marché, les vins DOCG « Barbaresco » doivent présenter les caractéristiques suivantes :

Couleur : rouge grenat
Nez : intense et caractéristique
Bouche : sèche, pleine, harmonieuse
Titre alcoométrique volumique total minimal : 12,50 % vol
Acidité totale minimale : 4,5 g/l
Extrait sec non réducteur minimal : 22,0 g/l

Ces caractéristiques s’appliquent également aux vins Barbaresco Riserva.

Article 7

Désignation et présentation

La dénomination DOCG peut être suivie de l’une des mentions géographiques supplémentaires officiellement reconnues (liste complète en annexe).
Toute qualification supplémentaire non prévue par le présent cahier des charges (telle que « extra », « fin », « sélectionné », « vieux », etc.) est interdite.
Les références à des raisons sociales ou marques commerciales sont autorisées à condition qu’elles ne soient pas trompeuses.
La mention géographique supplémentaire doit figurer immédiatement sous la dénomination « Barbaresco » et ne peut être d’une taille supérieure.
La mention « Vigna » suivie du toponyme n’est autorisée qu’en association avec une mention géographique supplémentaire et sous réserve du respect des exigences de traçabilité, de vinification séparée et d’embouteillage.
L’indication du millésime est obligatoire.

Article 8

Conditionnement

Les vins doivent être conditionnés dans des bouteilles traditionnelles en verre foncé avec des systèmes de fermeture autorisés par la législation en vigueur.
Les contenances doivent être conformes à la loi et ne peuvent être inférieures à 37,5 cl (à l’exclusion des bouteilles de 2 litres).
Tout conditionnement susceptible d’induire le consommateur en erreur ou de porter atteinte à la réputation du vin est interdit.
Des formats traditionnels de grande capacité (6 à 15 litres) peuvent être autorisés à des fins promotionnelles.

Article 9

Lien avec le milieu géographique

La zone du Barbaresco se situe dans les collines des Langhe, caractérisées par des sols marneux et sableux d’origine tortonienne. L’interaction entre le sol, le climat et les pratiques viticoles traditionnelles du Nebbiolo donne naissance à des vins à la robe grenat, au bouquet éthéré, à la structure tannique équilibrée et à l’élégance reconnue.

Article 10

Organisme de contrôle

Valoritalia S.r.l.
Organisme de contrôle agréé par le Ministère italien de l’Agriculture, chargé de la vérification annuelle du respect du présent cahier des charges sur l’ensemble de la filière de production.