Rizzi
Barbaresco Nervo – 2022
Region: italy - piedmont
Rizzi
Nestled at the very top of the impressively steep, vine-clad hills of the Treiso zone of Barbaresco, the winery’s vineyards were planted as early as the 1960’s in the white marl, calcareous soil typical of this area. An impressive selection of cru Barbaresci is punctuated by the spectacular Vigna Boito located at the peak of the Rizzi cru. The estate is managed entirely by the Dellapiana family with son Enrico as winemaker and viticulturist. Rizzi Winery participates in “The Green Experience” project which mandates guidelines for environmentally sustainable production.
The Wine
Vineyard Profile
Estate Nervo crü, bordering Bernadot and Rizzi crüs. Steep slopes and poor, well draining soils.
- Altitude: 1015-1215 feet/310–370 meters
- Exposure: South
- Soil: Clay-calcareous white marl
- Vines Planted: 1967 – 2004
- Vine Training System: Guyot
Harvest Notes
- Hand harvested into small crates the 1st 10 days of October
- Fermented in stainless steel tanks at controlled temperature not over 86ºF/30ºC for 3-4 weeks
- Wine is racked, then undergoes malolactic fermentation for about a month
- Aged 12 months in large 50hl oak barrels, then aged in concrete vats for 6-9 months
- Aged in bottle until about 3 years after harvest
Winemaker's Notes
A wine of both finesse and density. The palate is full of raspberry, fresh mint and cinnamon with mineral, earthy notes. The long finish showcases thick, linear tannins.
Wine Summary
100% Nebbiolo; alcohol: 14.5%; steep slopes of estate Nervo cru bordering Rizzi and Bernadot crus; 1015-1215 feet; poor clay-calcareous white marl soil; fermented in stainless steel tanks at controlled temperature 3-4 weeks; malolactic fermentation in tank, aged 12 months in large Slavonian oak barrels; aged 6-9 months in concrete tanks, bottle aged until 3 years after the harvest.
Technical Information
- 100% Nebbiolo
- Alcohol: 14.5%
- Total Acidity: 5.47 g/l
- Residual Sugar: 0.43 g/l
Reviews
93 Points
While the 2022 shows slightly less tension and verticality than some vintages, it is not lacking in focus and juiciness. Attractive scents of candied raspberry and rose are offset by a touch of rooibos. The palate boasts an effortless flow as pink grapefruit and blood orange seem to meld into the fine, crisp tannins. Next to the Rizzi MGA, Nervo sits beneath the town of Treiso. Here, the estate’s dizzyingly steep vineyards reach 370 metres above sea level with a full south exposure. 2025 – 2032
Decanter, November, 2024
93+ Points
Bright ruby-red. Musky aromas of raspberry and blueberry with hints of woodsy underbrush and grilled meat. Rather powerful, with bright acidity and menthol character that lingers nicely featuring a nuance of coffee. Much bigger and chunkier in its mouthfeel than the Rizzi. 2028 – 2038
Ian D'Agata Wine Review, April, 2025
93 Points
A restrained wine with aromas of bright licorice, strawberries, blood oranges and a touch of dried flowers. Firm, lightly framed tannins, crisp acidity and a medium body. Good length and integration, with a tight finish. Best after 2025.
jamessuckling.com, January, 2025
16.5 Points
Treiso. Very pale ruby.
A little smoky and then, with more aeration, strawberry fruit. Lots of juice and fragrant strawberry fruit on the palate. Crunchy tannins on the finish. Can be approached now. 2024 – 2032
JancisRobinson.com, November, 2024
General Info
| Country | Italy |
| Region | Piedmont |
| Appellation(s) | Treiso, Neive, Neviglie |
| Proprietors | Enrico & Jole Dellapiana (brother and sister) |
| Founded | 1974 |
| Winemaker | Enrico Dellapiana |
| Annual Production | Between 7,500 to 9,000 9L cases |