Last week we were at a blind tasting in Manhattan which featured wines from Piedmont, Italy. Out of the dozens of wines we tried, we were blown away by one - literally taken back. There was something familiar, elegant and graceful about the quality which was enhanced by its Piedmontese uniqueness. Later, when the wine (La Spinetta 'PIN') was revealed, it was no surprise that this gem was from "one of Italy's most fashionable winemaker, proprietors, Giorgio Rivetti, [who] displays a masterful touch whether he is making Barbera....or his proprietary red wine Pin." Robert Parker, Jr.
This Super-Piedmont is a proprietary blend which changes from vintage to vintage; the 2004 vintage is a Nebbiolo-Barbera blend that has a complex and intense nose with an exotic and luxurious texture. Nebbiolo is the most noble of the Piedmont varietals making wines of amazing power and finesse such as Barolos and Barbarescos. What is unique about 'Pin' is that it has the muscle and structure from 65% Nebbiolo, but a fleshiness and youthful approachability from 35% Barbera. One would have to wait a decade to get this elegant result from most Barolos, making this baby Barolo a must have. With notes of black plum, currant, black cherry, smoke and spice, this delicious red is warm on the palate with perfect tannins and a long finish.
Pair this wine with your favorite meat dish, Osso-Buco, hearty pasta or pungent cheeses. And while this wine screams for food, it is one of the rare Piedmont gems that can be drunk alone because of the Barbera in the blend.
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