Produttori del Barbaresco Barbaresco DOCG 2017

Produttori del Barbaresco is a cooperative winery of 56 members/families and 100 hectares of nebbiolo vineyards in the Barbaresco appellation, amounting to nearly 1/6 of the vineyards in the area. Each family is in full control of their own land, growing the grapes with centuries-old skill, tradition, and dedication. The co-op was created in 1894 by Domizio Cavazza, headmaster of the Royal Enological School of Alba, by gathering nine Barbaresco vineyard owners to make wine in the local castle that he owned. It closed in the 1930s under the fascist regime, but was saved in 1958 by the village priest who gathered together 19 small growers to get it started again. The winery produces this DOCG Barbaresco from a blend of nebbiolo grapes from different vineyards. The 2016 vintage set a high bar as one of the finest ever produced by Produttori, and the 2017 more than rose to the occasion. A warm, dry growing season resulted in a deeper, darker expression than its predecessor, with layer upon layer of perfumed black cherry, cassis, black licorice, violets, sea breeze, and tar on the nose. Muscular and brooding on the palate, it delivers dense, chewy black cherry and black berry fruit, balanced with mouthwatering acidity, and hints of salted licorice and anise. Rustic yet refined, this is another instant classic. Drink now, or cellar for 10-15 years.