2006 La Spinetta Barbaresco “Vigneto Starderi”, Piedmont, Italy

ABOUT THIS WINE

Made exclusively from Nebbiolo grown in the Starderi vineyard in Neive, one of the top crus in the Barbaresco appellation, this wine reflects La Spinettas bold, modernist approach balanced by the deep tradition of Piedmont. The 2006 vintage was a classic in the region, marked by a long and even growing season, producing wines of both structure and freshness.

The Starderi vineyard is situated at 270 meters altitude, with calcareous soils that promote aromatic complexity and fine tannin. Grapes are hand-harvested, and fermentation occurs in temperature-controlled rotofermenters to extract color and aromatics gently but fully. The wine is aged for 2022 months in French oak barriques (mostly new), followed by 12 months in bottle before release.

Despite the oak aging, the wine maintains a core of pure Nebbiolo expression, driven by high-tone red and black fruits, mineral depth, and floral lift. With time, secondary notes of leather, dried herbs, and forest floor emerge, making this an age-worthy and cerebral Barbaresco.

ABOUT THE PRODUCER

Founded in the 1970s by Giorgio Rivetti, La Spinetta began with a focus on Moscato and quickly evolved into one of Italys leading modernist wineries, known for its distinctive single-vineyard Barbarescos and Barolos. With a dedication to low yields, meticulous vineyard care, and bold vinification, La Spinetta helped redefine the stylistic possibilities of Nebbiolo.

The estate farms organically (though not certified) and emphasizes minimal intervention in the vineyard to preserve the natural balance of each site. In the cellar, Giorgio embraces modern tools, including rotofermenters and barrique aging, but always in pursuit of elegance, longevity, and terroir expression.

La Spinettas iconic labelsfeaturing animals from artist Albrecht Drermirror the wines themselves: refined, powerful, and intensely expressive, rooted in a deep connection to place and heritage.