Roero Rosso

Roero is an Italian DOCG appellation from Piedmont that is probably best known for its white Arneis-based wine, but the region also produces excellent Nebbiolo-based reds. The wines from this region are softer and less tannic than those from Barolo and Barbaresco—the two most famous regions for Nebbiolo.

In Roero, Nebbiolo has to make 95% of the blend, but most examples are 100% Nebbiolo. The wines are fruity, aromatic, and richly flavored, with typical cherry, earthy, and violet aromas. They have a slightly lighter character than the reds coming from Barolo and Barbaresco.

The wines are approachable in their youth, but most also age well. The minimum aging period is twenty months or thirty-two for the Riserva label (with six months in wood). Red Roero wines are food-friendly and can match anything from pasta dishes to red meat and game (Riserva).