2007 Podere Ruggeri Corsini Langhe Nebbiolo

Garagiste

• By Jon Rimmerman
  2/16/2010, (See more on Garagiste...)

  (NEBBIOLO Corsini) Nebbiolo Dear Friends, This is one of the best price/value ratios I've come across on Nebbiolo in a long time. The wine would be a major offer regardless of price (it's giggly-good) but the tariff makes it a bit ridiculous. If you thought Barolo and Barbaresco were too expensive, this 100% estate picked/vinified Nebbiolo will bring a big smile to your wallet (and your palate). Last year's 2006 version of this wine was a big hit and the 2007 is even more intriguing. From a high-elevation parcel that forms the backbone of the winery's two cuvees of Barolo, the Langhe Nebbiolo is culled from barrels that just miss the cut. The only qualitative difference I can discern between the Langhe Nebbiolo and either Barolo is color and impact (the Nebbiolo is darker and more obviously powerful, the two Barolo's are more elegant, complex and lighter in color). When choosing barrels for Barolo, Corsini does not always pick the biggest and richest lots - they prefer feminine grace meshed with meditative power and only a few barrels have that "opposites attract" quality. The barrels that are too dark and extracted end up as Langhe Nebbiolo and, in 2007, that gives the consumer a wallop of flavor and interest for a bargain basement price (I have no doubt the 2007 Nebbiolo is richer and more harmonious than many examples of Barolo on the market). What this wine lacks in finesse, it makes up for in deep-toned spice and floral flavors with a captivating rose-water quality and bright red luminescent color. It really blossoms after 1-2 hours of air and the palate is just as good or better on day two (a rarity for Nebbiolo). The 2007 covers a wide spectrum of aromas and flavors with a resinous texture that helps the wine linger in the mouth and it does all of this in a quasi-traditional way that should appeal to wine-geeks and casual observes alike. Normally, I stay away from winery reviews (too much conflict of interest) but they really describe the 2007 flavors accurately: "Medium cherry-tinged ruby in color with a supple body and fresh, elegant perfume. One finds violets, blueberries, brambles, mint and a touch black pepper on the nose and palate. Will pair with braised foods and stewed/roast red meat and game, also with hard aged cheese." Due to limited quantities that's enough for now. ONE SHIPMENT ONLY at this bargain price directly from the winery cellar. This parcel has impeccable provenance: 2007 Podere Ruggeri Corsini Langhe Nebbiolo Thank you, Jon Rimmerman Garagiste Seattle, WA Italy6237