The Nebbiolo d’Alba is a 100% Nebbiolo-based appellation encompassing more than 30 communes on both banks of the Tanaro River. It covers the hills of Roero, the area surrounding Alba, and a stretch of territory between Barolo and Barbaresco that runs from Alba to Monforte d’Alba.
Barolo and Barbaresco sites are excluded
Significantly, the appellation excludes the Barolo and Barbaresco production zones. In other words, producers of Barolo and Barbaresco cannot declassify their Nebbiolo-based wines as Nebbiolo d’Alba DOC.
If they choose to declassify their wines, they must do so under the Langhe DOC appellation.
Nebbiolo d’Alba DOC vs. Roero DOCG
Historically, the slopes of Roero produced a large amount of Nebbiolo d’Alba DOC. However, with the advent of the Roero DOC in 1985 (now promoted to a DOCG status), most Roero producers have used the more recognized Roero DOCG for their Nebbiolo-based wines.
Nebbiolo d’Alba wine aging requirement
Nebbiolo d’Alba must have aged for at least a year. The Superiore version must be matured for at least 18 months (with at least six months under oak).
The Nebbiolo d’Alba DOC allows for a sparkling wine
Surprisingly, the Nebbiolo d’Alba DOC allows for sparkling wines in both red and rosé.
The typical Nebbiolo d’Alba DOC wine
The Nebbiolo d’Alba DOC appellation offers a lighter, less austere, and less structured Nebbiolo than Barolos and Barbarescos. However, it retains the grape variety typical scents like red flowers and red fruits, as well as a faint and pleasant tarry note. It provides a more approachable and affordable version than other Nebbiolo-based wines from Piedmont.
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