Grape Deep Dive - Nebbiolo

16/01/2026 7 min

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Episode Synopsis

In this episode of The Second Glass, we dive into one of the most paradoxical grapes in the wine world: Nebbiolo—the pale, fragile-looking fruit that somehow produces some of Italy’s most powerful and age-worthy wines.We break down Nebbiolo with absolute clarity:Origins & Identity — why it thrives only in a few corners of PiedmontStructure & Style — high tannin, high acid, light color, but massive impactSignature Aromas — rose, tar, cherry, anise, dried herbsTerroir Influence — how slope, aspect, fog, and soil create dramatic style shiftsBarolo vs. Barbaresco — what truly separates the twoModern vs. Traditional winemaking — long maceration? barriques? botti?Other Nebbiolo zones — Langhe, Gattinara, Valtellina and why they matterHow to recognize Nebbiolo blind — the non-negotiable tellsFood pairings & serving tips — what actually works with all that tanninWhether you're studying for CSW, WSET, CMS, or just obsessed with Italian wine, this episode gives you the mental map you wish you’d had sooner.Pour a glass, sharpen your palate, and let’s decode Nebbiolo—one of the most misunderstood noble grapes on earth.