La Trava is a boutique winery in the heart of Piemonte, dedicated to producing wines that reflect the elegance and complexity of the Langhe region. Their Barbaresco 2020 is a refined expression of Nebbiolo, sourced from well-exposed vineyards with limestone and clay-rich soils. Aged in large oak barrels, this wine balances structure and finesse, highlighting the floral and red fruit characteristics that make Barbaresco distinct. Compared to its Barolo counterpart, this wine is slightly more approachable in its youth, yet still offers excellent ageing potential.

Appearance: Bright garnet with a delicate brick-orange hue at the rim, showing Nebbiolo’s natural ageing evolution. The wine has a luminous clarity, with slow-moving legs that indicate its balanced alcohol and structure.

Aroma: Elegant and layered, with aromas of wild strawberries, red cherries, and dried rose petals. Hints of violets and orange zest add a lifted freshness, while earthy undertones of truffle, tobacco, and cedar bring depth. Subtle notes of anise, white pepper, and dried herbs develop as the wine opens, enhancing its complexity.

Taste: Silky and refined, with a core of ripe red berries, pomegranate, and cranberry. The vibrant acidity keeps the palate fresh, while polished tannins provide structure without overpowering the fruit. Layers of liquorice, dried thyme, and nutmeg add depth, with a hint of minerality running through the mid-palate, reflecting the vineyard’s terroir.

Finish: Long and graceful, with lingering red fruit, floral notes, and a delicate savoury edge. The tannins remain firm yet finely textured, ensuring further development in the bottle. A final touch of dried roses, balsamic, and soft spice leaves a lasting impression of elegance and refinement.

Food Pairing: Pairs beautifully with duck breast with cherry glaze, where the wine’s acidity complements the richness of the meat while enhancing the fruit elements. Also an excellent match with wild mushroom and taleggio polenta, as the wine’s earthy notes harmonise with the dish’s savoury depth.