Barbaresco pairs best with rich and meaty dishes that feature earthy and smoky flavours such as braised short ribs, prime rib roast, veal chops, duck in a mushroom sauce, venison stew, hearty pasta, and Osso Buco. As Barbaresco requires a decade or more of ageing to tame its fierce tannin, you’ll want to enjoy it for special meals that you don’t get to enjoy every day. Floral and fruity on the nose, Barbaresco is an elegant red that knows how to be fierce, making it the Queen of Red Wines.
Barbaresco & Food Pairing Tips
As Barbaresco is high in acidity, it can also handle rich tomato sauces. To be safe, I’d pair up older and smoother Barbaresco with tomato sauces lacking a lot of protein as the high tannin of a young Barbaresco may make the wine taste like tin when pitted against the acidity of the tomato sauce. On the other hand, a young Barbaresco should be safe with a meaty tomato sauce, like Pasta Bolognese, as the meat will naturally soften the tannin.
Barbaresco is produced in Piedmont, Italy from the Nebbiolo grape. Nebbiolo is thin-skinned grape and is harsh with tannin, and thus Barbaresco is aged in small French oak barrels to offset the tannin with the oak’s sweetness. Flavours of blackberries, cherries, earth, leather, licorice, tar, tobacco, vanilla, roses, violet, truffles, and smoke dominate the nose and taste of Barbaresco, while the high acidity and high tannin produce a chewy yet velvety texture.
The high acidity and high tannin content of Barbaresco make it perfect for fatty and meaty dishes as the acidity cuts through the fat, keeping your taste buds refreshed, while the fat and protein of the meat softens the tannin. With softer tannin, the smoky, earthy and complex notes of Barbaresco become more pronounced as you aren’t as focused on the cheek-pinching power of this red wine.
+ Click on the plus sign in the table below to expand upon why these individual pairings work! +
Best Food Matches with Barbaresco DOCG
Varietal | Food | Why This Pairing Works | Rating (out of 5) |
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Barbaresco DOCG | Duck with Mushrooms | Duck with mushrooms pairs beautifully with Barbaresco, creating a richly layered experience. The wine’s cherry and rose notes echo the duck’s succulent richness, while its earthy undertones resonate with the mushrooms, enhancing the dish's depth. The smooth tannins in Barbaresco mingle well with the duck’s texture, while the wine’s acidity balances the duck’s natural fat, bringing a lift to each bite. This pairing brings together earth and elegance, allowing the savoury, gamey flavours of the duck and mushrooms to shine alongside Barbaresco's refined complexity. |
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Barbaresco DOCG | Steak and Mushrooms | Steak and mushrooms with Barbaresco is an ideal pairing, where each component enhances the other in a seamless balance of flavours and textures. Barbaresco’s firm tannins and earthy, floral notes meld beautifully with the richness of the steak and the depth of the mushrooms, creating a robust yet elegant experience. The wine’s cherry and dark berry flavours resonate with the meat’s savoury notes, while its aromatic hints of truffle and forest floor mirror the mushrooms’ earthy quality. |
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Barbaresco DOCG | Truffles | Truffles and Barbaresco create a pairing grounded in earthy richness and aromatic depth. The wine's nuanced aromas of dried flowers, red fruit, and hints of forest floor echo the truffle’s distinctive, earthy intensity, creating a layered sensory experience. Barbaresco’s silky tannins and balanced acidity carry the truffle’s flavours, while its subtle notes of spice and underbrush resonate with the complexity of the truffle. Together, the pairing highlights the woodsy, umami quality of truffles, while the wine's refined structure provides a graceful counterpart to the luxurious flavours on the palate. |
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Barbaresco DOCG | Beef Stroganoff | The long, lingering finish of Barbaresco creates an exceptional pairing with Beef Stroganoff. The wine's structure blends beautifully with the rich, creamy sauce, while its notes of red cherry and plum offer a fruity contrast to the savoury flavours. |
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Barbaresco DOCG | Beef Wellington | Barbaresco’s deep cherry, rose, and subtle spice notes pair beautifully with beef Wellington, highlighting the savoury flavours of the tender beef and rich mushroom duxelles. The wine’s acidity and structured tannins enhance the pastry’s buttery layers and balance the earthy mushrooms, while hints of truffle and dark berry provide a satisfying depth to each bite. |
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Barbaresco DOCG | Cassoulet | Barbaresco's nuances of leather and tobacco create a delightful harmony with Cassoulet. The wine's vibrant acidity cuts through the richness of the dish, while its undertones of truffle and earth complement the earthy flavours of the beans and meats. |
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Barbaresco DOCG | Fontina Cheese | The elegant tannins of Barbaresco create a symphony with Fontina Cheese. The wine's vibrant acidity beautifully cuts through the cheese's creamy texture, while its notes of red cherry and plum provide a luxurious backdrop. This pairing is nothing short of extraordinary, with the wine's long, lingering finish perfectly complementing the cheese's subtle nuttiness. |
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Barbaresco DOCG | Duck | Barbaresco's complex bouquet dances beautifully with the rich flavours of Duck. The wine's vibrant acidity helps cut through the fattiness of the meat, while its undertones of truffle and earth echo the gamey notes in the dish. The pairing creates a balanced experience, with the wine's fruit notes providing a refreshing counterpoint to the duck's savoury character. |
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Barbaresco DOCG | Mushrooms | Barbaresco’s earthy undertones and rich red fruit notes make it a compelling match for mushroom dishes, especially those with umami-rich varieties like porcini, morel, or portobello. The wine's tannins provide a sturdy backbone, bringing structure to the mushrooms’ soft texture, while its hints of dried rose and licorice add aromatic layers that mingle well with the deep, woodsy character of the mushrooms. Barbaresco’s natural acidity refreshes the palate, making each bite feel balanced, especially in cream-based or roasted mushroom dishes where the flavours gain complexity. |
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Barbaresco DOCG | Wild Mushrooms | Barbaresco’s earthy and floral aromas bring out the best in wild mushrooms, adding layers to their natural forest flavours. When paired with varieties like chanterelles, morels, or black trumpets, Barbaresco’s red fruit notes offer a vivid contrast to the mushrooms' deep, earthy tones. The wine’s structured tannins and refreshing acidity balance the richness of sautéed or roasted wild mushrooms, while subtle hints of herbs and spice in the wine draw out the mushrooms’ rustic character. |
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Barbaresco DOCG | Osso Buco | The long, lingering finish of Barbaresco creates a perfect symphony with Osso Buco. The wine's robust structure stands up to the rich, meaty flavours of the dish, while its notes of red cherry and plum offer a fruity contrast to the savoury sauce. This pairing is truly exceptional, with the wine's complexity matching the depth of flavours in the Osso Buco. |
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Barbaresco DOCG | Oxtail | Barbaresco’s robust tannins and nuanced depth provide a bold pairing for the rich, slow-cooked flavours of oxtail. With its earthy and fruity layers, the wine balances the succulent, gelatinous texture of the oxtail, especially in braised preparations where the meat has absorbed herbs and spices. Barbaresco’s acidity adds a lively contrast, cutting through the richness and helping to keep each bite fresh, while its hints of truffle and dried rose enhance the aromatic herbs often found in oxtail dishes. Together, Barbaresco and oxtail offer a rustic, hearty pairing. |
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Barbaresco DOCG | Venison | The nuances of leather and tobacco in Barbaresco provide an excellent backdrop for Venison. The wine's structure stands up well to the lean, gamey meat, while its subtle spice notes add complexity to the pairing. The combination offers a sophisticated tasting experience, with the wine's fruit notes balancing the rich flavours of the venison. |
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Barbaresco DOCG | Pasta with Duck Sauce | Barbaresco's vibrant acidity pairs beautifully with Pasta with Duck Sauce. The wine's structure complements the rich, savoury sauce, while its notes of red cherry and plum offer a fruity contrast. The combination creates a well-balanced pairing that enhances the flavours of the pasta dish while showcasing the wine's complexity. |
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Barbaresco DOCG | Lamb Chops in a Mushroom Sauce | Pairing lamb chops in a mushroom sauce with Barbaresco can create a delightful dining experience, though the wine's robust character might dominate the dish. Barbaresco, known for its bold tannins and earthy undertones, can match the richness of the lamb while its high acidity cuts through the creaminess of the mushroom sauce. The wine's flavour profile, with notes of dark cherry, leather, and forest floor, can add depth to the meal. However, it’s important to note that the intensity of Barbaresco may overshadow the more subtle flavours of the lamb. Personally, I don't want to taste too much of the gamy flavours of Lamb, so I quite enjoy this pairing, and highly recommend it! |
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Barbaresco DOCG | Elk Steak | Barbaresco's robust structure creates an exceptional pairing with Elk Steak. The wine's elegant tannins complement the lean, flavourful meat, while its undertones of truffle and earth echo the game's natural habitat. |
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Barbaresco DOCG | White Truffle Pasta | White truffle pasta and Barbaresco create an intriguing pairing that showcases the luxurious qualities of both the dish and the wine. The earthy, aromatic notes of white truffle beautifully contrast with Barbaresco’s rich flavours of dark fruit and subtle spice, allowing for a delightful interplay on the palate. The wine’s robust structure and tannins work well with the creamy texture of the pasta, providing a satisfying mouthfeel. |
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Barbaresco DOCG | Braised Lamb Shanks | Barbaresco, made primarily from the Nebbiolo grape, offers bright acidity and flavours of red fruit like cherry and raspberry, along with floral notes, earthiness, and a characteristic tannic structure. The wine's acidity cuts through the richness of the braised lamb shanks, while its tannins soften with the meat's tenderness, enhancing the overall mouthfeel. The earthy and savoury notes in Barbaresco complement the flavours from the braising process, especially if the dish is infused with herbs like rosemary, garlic, or thyme. |
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Barbaresco DOCG | Truffle and Porcini Pasta | Barbaresco’s earthy, floral notes meet truffle and porcini pasta beautifully, creating a deep and savoury experience. The wine’s hints of dried cherry, rose, and spice add complexity to the richness of truffle and mushroom, while its acidity cuts through the creamy sauce or olive oil often used in these dishes, keeping the pairing lively. Barbaresco’s tannins also bring a firm structure, supporting the dish’s bold flavours without overpowering the delicate, aromatic nuances of truffle and porcini. |
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Barbaresco DOCG | Ostrich Steak with Mushroom Sauce | Ostrich steak with mushroom sauce pairs well with Barbaresco, which is known for its earthier characteristics that resonate beautifully with the rich flavours of the dish. The high acidity of Barbaresco cuts through the richness of the mushroom sauce, allowing the earthy notes of the wine to elevate the overall experience. The wine’s tannins can stand up to the robust flavours of the ostrich steak, creating a delightful interplay that balances the dish while highlighting the depth of both the meat and the sauce. |
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Barbaresco DOCG | Beef | Barbaresco pairs pretty good with beef, offering a balanced yet bold profile that brings out the best in both. With its floral aromatics, red fruit notes, and complex layers of spice and earthiness, Barbaresco has a structure that suits richly flavoured beef dishes, whether roasted, grilled, or braised. The wine's firm tannins and refined acidity offer a delightful contrast to the beef's succulence, creating an enjoyable interplay of texture and taste. Giving this one 4 stars as the ranking will vary depending on how the beef is prepared. |
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Barbaresco DOCG | Braised Beef | Braised beef and Barbaresco bring out the best in each other, with the wine’s structured tannins and layered fruit creating a robust pairing for the dish’s tender, richly flavoured meat. Barbaresco’s notes of dark cherry, dried roses, and hints of anise add complexity to the savoury depth of the braise, while its acidity cuts through the fattiness, keeping the palate refreshed. As the braised beef develops deeper, caramelized flavours, the earthy tones of Barbaresco join beautifully, providing a balance of strength and elegance in each mouthful. |
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Barbaresco DOCG | Beef Carne Asada | The nuances of leather and tobacco in Barbaresco offer an intriguing contrast to Beef Carne Asada. The wine's vibrant acidity cuts through the rich flavours of the marinated beef, while its notes of red cherry and plum provide a fruity backdrop. This pairing creates a unique fusion of Old World wine and Latin American cuisine that adventurous food lovers will appreciate. |
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Barbaresco DOCG | Beef Carpaccio | Beef carpaccio and Barbaresco make for a sophisticated pairing, with the wine’s fragrant notes of rose, dark cherry, and subtle spice adding layers of interest to the delicate raw beef. Barbaresco’s acidity and firm tannins provide a refreshing contrast to the richness of the carpaccio, cutting through the meat’s silkiness and highlighting its subtle flavour. The wine’s earthy undertones resonate with any truffle oil or parmesan accents on the dish, enhancing the depth of each bite. |
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Barbaresco DOCG | Prime Rib Roast | Barbaresco and prime rib roast form a remarkable pairing that showcases the wine's full-bodied nature alongside the rich, succulent flavours of the beef. The wine's notes of dark cherry, plum, and earthy undertones mesh beautifully with the savoury, juicy characteristics of the prime rib. The acidity in Barbaresco cuts through the fat of the roast, ensuring a balanced palate experience. |
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Barbaresco DOCG | Roast Beef | Roast beef and Barbaresco create a rewarding pairing, where the wine’s structured tannins and bright acidity bring out the richness of the meat. Barbaresco’s notes of dark cherry, rose, and a touch of spice add complexity to each bite, while its refined earthiness interacts well with the roasted, caramelized edges of the beef. |
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Barbaresco DOCG | Wild Boar | Wild boar and Barbaresco can make a memorable pairing, though the wine's power might slightly overpower the delicate, gamey nuances of the meat. Barbaresco’s bold structure, with its firm tannins, earthy undertones, and layers of dark cherry and spice, pairs well with rich, slow-cooked wild boar dishes, where the meat has taken on a deep, savoury flavour. However, for simpler preparations, the intensity of Barbaresco could risk overshadowing the more subtle qualities of wild boar. For those who enjoy robust flavours, this pairing offers a captivating experience, though it leans toward the intense. |
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Barbaresco DOCG | Castelmagno Cheese | Barbaresco's hints of rose petal and violet make for an interesting pairing with Castelmagno Cheese. The wine's complex bouquet adds depth to the cheese's intense flavour (if aged), while its undertones of truffle and earth add further depth. Together, they offer a unique tasting experience that showcases the terroir of both products. |
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Barbaresco DOCG | Gorgonzola Cheese | Barbaresco's nuances of leather and tobacco dance gracefully with Gorgonzola Cheese. The wine's vibrant acidity cuts through the cheese's rich, creamy texture, while its undertones of truffle and earth add depth to each bite. |
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Barbaresco DOCG | Parmesan Cheese | The undertones of truffle and earth in Barbaresco dance gracefully with Parmesan Cheese. The wine's elegant tannins provide structure to match the cheese's intense flavour, while its notes of red cherry and plum add a fruity contrast. |
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Barbaresco DOCG | Robiola Cheese | Barbaresco's hints of rose petal and violet create a delightful pairing with Robiola Cheese. The wine's vibrant acidity cuts through the cheese's creamy texture, while its complex bouquet adds depth to each bite. The combination offers a sensory journey, with the wine's long, lingering finish contrasting the cheese's tangy flavours. |
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Barbaresco DOCG | Romano Cheese | The nuances of leather and tobacco in Barbaresco provide an intriguing contrast to Romano Cheese. The wine's elegant tannins stand up to the cheese's sharp, salty flavour, while its notes of red cherry and plum offer a fruity counterpoint. |
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Barbaresco DOCG | Stilton Cheese | Barbaresco's subtle spice notes offer an interesting counterpoint to Stilton Cheese. While the wine's vibrant acidity helps cut through the cheese's rich, creamy texture, its complex bouquet ensures the pairing remains balanced. The combination creates an enjoyable tasting experience, with the wine's fruit notes providing a pleasant contrast to the cheese's bold flavour. |
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Barbaresco DOCG | Taleggio Cheese | The elegant tannins of Barbaresco create a delightful harmony with Taleggio Cheese. The wine's vibrant acidity cuts through the cheese's creamy texture, while its notes of red cherry and plum offer a fruity contrast to the cheese's earthy flavour. The wine's subtle hints of rose petal and violet add an aromatic dimension that elevates this pairing to new heights. |
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Barbaresco DOCG | Duck à l'Orange | Barbaresco's vibrant acidity makes for an interesting pairing with Duck à l'Orange. The wine's elegant tannins provide structure to match the rich duck meat, while its subtle spice notes get along great with the citrus flavours in the sauce. This combination creates a unique fusion of flavours that balances the sweetness of the dish with the wine's complexity. |
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Barbaresco DOCG | Lamb Chops | Barbaresco, with its elegant structure and complex flavour profile, pairs beautifully with lamb chops with a lot of fat. The wine’s notes of cherry, raspberry, and floral undertones enhance the rich, savoury qualities of the lamb, while its earthy and spicy nuances complement the meat's natural flavours. The moderate tannins in Barbaresco provide a nice balance, cutting through the fat and ensuring a smooth mouthfeel. Its lively acidity refreshes the palate, making each bite of lamb feel lighter and more vibrant. This pairing highlights the tenderness of the lamb while showcasing the wine’s finesse and depth. |
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Barbaresco DOCG | Pasta Bolognese | Barbaresco's vibrant acidity creates a delightful harmony with Pasta Bolognese. The wine's structure complements the rich meat sauce, while its notes of red cherry and plum offer a fruity contrast to the savoury flavours. |
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Barbaresco DOCG | Grilled Wild Boar | An aged Barbaresco's elegant tannins create a perfect harmony with Grilled Wild Boar. The wine's vibrant acidity cuts through the richness of the meat, while its hints of rose petal and violet add an aromatic dimension to the pairing. Together, they offer a sophisticated tasting experience that balances the robust flavours of the boar with the wine's complexity. |
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Barbaresco DOCG | Barbecued Wild Boar | The complex bouquet of Barbaresco dances beautifully with the rich flavours of Barbecued Wild Boar. The wine's robust structure stands up to the bold, smoky notes of the meat, while its undertones of truffle and earth echo the gamey character of the boar. Wild Boar is a lean meat, however, the high acidity of Barbaresco highlights its subtle flavours. Unfortunately, a youthful Barbaresco, where the tannin has yet to be tamed, will destroy the subtle flavours of wild boar. Thus, choose an aged Barbaresco if possible for this pairing. |
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Barbaresco DOCG | Mushroom Risotto | The undertones of truffle and earth in Barbaresco dance gracefully with Mushroom Risotto. The wine's vibrant acidity cuts through the creamy texture of the risotto, while its elegant tannins provide structure to complement the earthy flavours of the mushrooms. |
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Barbaresco DOCG | Steak | Barbaresco's robust structure pairs beautifully with Steak. The wine's elegant tannins stand up to the rich, meaty flavours, while its notes of red cherry and plum offer a fruity contrast. The wine's complex bouquet adds depth to each bite, creating a balanced and satisfying pairing that steak lovers will appreciate. |
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Barbaresco DOCG | NY Strip Steak | Barbaresco's complex bouquet complements the rich flavours of NY Strip Steak. The wine's structure stands up well to the meaty texture, while its hints of rose petal and violet add an aromatic dimension to the pairing. |
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Barbaresco DOCG | Steak Tartare | Barbaresco's complex bouquet creates an intriguing pairing with Steak Tartare. The wine's vibrant acidity helps to enhance the flavours of the raw beef, while its hints of rose petal and violet add an aromatic dimension. |
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Barbaresco DOCG | Goose | The long, lingering finish of Barbaresco creates an exceptional pairing with Goose. The wine's structure stands up beautifully to the rich, fatty meat, while its notes of red cherry and plum offer a fruity contrast to the savoury flavours. This combination is truly extraordinary, with the wine's complexity matching the depth of flavours in the goose. |
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Barbaresco DOCG | Guinea Fowl stuffed with Mushrooms | The rich, aromatic character of Barbaresco makes it an intriguing choice with guinea fowl stuffed with mushrooms. Its layers of red fruit, floral undertones, and earthy hints find an interesting balance with the savoury depth of the mushroom stuffing, adding complexity to the meal. Yet, Barbaresco's intensity can potentially overshadow the more delicate flavours of the guinea fowl itself, particularly if the bird is simply seasoned. For those who appreciate a bolder wine with game, this pairing brings out contrasting elements, though a lighter red (like Burgundy) might offer a subtler experience with the dish’s softer notes. |
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Barbaresco DOCG | Braciola alla Griglia - Grilled Beef Roll | The nuances of leather and tobacco in Barbaresco complement the rich flavours of Braciola alla Griglia (grilled beef roll). The wine's structure stands up well to the grilled beef, while its notes of red cherry and plum offer a fruity contrast to the savoury filling. |
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Barbaresco DOCG | Tagliata di Manzo | Tagliata di Manzo, a dish featuring succulent slices of grilled beef, pairs wonderfully with Barbaresco. The wine's deep, complex flavours of dark fruits, such as black cherry and plum, mirror the rich, savoury profile of the beef, while its tannins provide a nice structure that supports the dish's hearty nature. The acidity in Barbaresco also helps to cut through the meat's richness, bringing a refreshing contrast to each bite. |
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Barbaresco DOCG | Soup Joumou | The complex bouquet of Barbaresco offers an intriguing contrast to Soup Joumou. The wine's structure provides a backdrop for the rich, hearty soup, while its notes of red cherry and plum add a fruity dimension to the pairing. This unexpected combination creates a unique fusion of flavours that bridges Italian wine tradition with Haitian culinary heritage. |
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Barbaresco DOCG | Asiago Cheese | The vibrant acidity of Barbaresco offers a pleasant counterpoint to Asiago Cheese. While the wine's elegant tannins provide structure, its notes of red cherry and plum ensure the pairing remains balanced. This combination creates an enjoyable dining experience, with the wine's subtle spice notes adding intrigue to the cheese's nutty flavour. |
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Barbaresco DOCG | Gouda Cheese | The notes of red cherry and plum in Barbaresco offer a pleasant counterpoint to Gouda Cheese. While the wine's elegant tannins provide structure, its hints of rose petal and violet ensure the pairing remains balanced. This combination creates an enjoyable dining experience, with the wine's complexity enhancing the cheese's caramel notes. |
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Barbaresco DOCG | Grana Padano Cheese | Barbaresco's subtle spice notes make for an interesting pairing with Grana Padano Cheese. The wine's vibrant acidity helps cut through the cheese's granular texture, while its complex bouquet adds depth to the pairing. The combination offers a unique tasting experience, with the wine's fruit notes contrasting nicely with the cheese's savoury character. |
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Barbaresco DOCG | Game | The nuances of leather and tobacco in Barbaresco offer an intriguing backdrop to Game meats. The wine's structure stands up well to the bold flavours of game, while its hints of rose petal and violet add a touch of elegance. This combination creates a rustic yet refined pairing. |
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Barbaresco DOCG | Game Birds | Game birds like quail or partridge, with their subtle, delicate flavours, might find Barbaresco's intensity a bit overpowering. However, for richer game birds like pheasant or duck, Barbaresco can be an intriguing pairing. Its bold cherry, rose, and licorice notes add depth to the darker, more pronounced flavours of heartier birds, while the wine’s tannic structure meets the texture of these meats with a satisfying grip. Yet with lighter preparations or milder game, Barbaresco’s powerful profile might overshadow the dish, so it’s best paired with game birds prepared with robust seasonings or sauces that can stand up to the wine’s strength. |
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Barbaresco DOCG | Lamb | Barbaresco, another prestigious wine made from the Nebbiolo grape, pairs beautifully with lamb thanks to its elegant structure and complex flavour profile. This wine typically showcases aromas and flavours of cherry, plum, rose petals, and earthy notes that enhance the rich, savoury qualities of lamb. The high acidity and firm tannins of Barbaresco cut through the fat in lamb dishes, bringing out the meat’s tenderness and depth of flavour. For an exceptional pairing, consider lamb prepared with herbs like rosemary or garlic, as the wine’s herbal and floral notes resonate with these flavours. |
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Barbaresco DOCG | Pheasant | Pheasant and an aged Barbaresco create an intriguing pairing, with the wine's bold character and tannic structure working alongside the game bird's rich, gamey flavours. The red fruit and floral notes of Barbaresco can bring out the depth in the pheasant's meat, creating a layered taste experience. However, Barbaresco's pronounced intensity might overpower the more delicate nuances of the pheasant, especially if the dish is prepared with subtle seasonings. This pairing is best suited for those who enjoy robust wines, but for a more balanced experience, considering a lighter red could allow the pheasant's flavours to shine through more clearly. |
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Barbaresco DOCG | Stewed Rabbit | Barbaresco's structured tannins and delicate aromatics work okay with the tender, subtly gamey flavours of stewed rabbit, although it will mask the gamey flavours, rather than enhance them. The wine’s floral and earthy undertones align with the gentle herbal notes that often infuse rabbit stews, while its acidity refreshes the palate between bites, balancing the richness of the slow-cooked meat. Barbaresco’s hints of cherry, plum, and spice also bring depth to each mouthful, adding a touch of complexity to the stew’s comforting flavours. |
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Barbaresco DOCG | Squab | Pairing Barbaresco with squab and porcini pasta can be a bold choice, as the wine’s intensity may sometimes overshadow the mild flavour of the squab. Barbaresco’s tannic structure and vibrant acidity have a robust presence, which pairs nicely with the earthy depth of the porcini mushrooms but may compete with the more subtle, gamey notes of squab. The floral and red fruit characteristics of Barbaresco can add intriguing layers to the dish, especially if the pasta has rich, umami-laden components; however, it’s best enjoyed with preparation where the squab has been prepared with ample seasoning or a stronger sauce to keep pace with the wine’s intensity. |
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Barbaresco DOCG | Vietnamese Cuisine With Beef | Barbaresco's vibrant acidity makes for an interesting pairing with Vietnamese Cuisine With Beef. The wine's elegant tannins provide structure to match the bold flavours of the dish, while its notes of red cherry and plum offer a fruity contrast to the spices. |
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Barbaresco DOCG | Partridge | Partridge and Barbaresco create an intriguing combination, where the wine’s rich tannins and complex flavour profile interact with the subtlety of the game bird. The cherry and floral notes of Barbaresco can bring a nice contrast to the earthy, gamey qualities of the partridge. However, the wine’s boldness may overshadow the delicate flavours of the bird, especially if the partridge is simply seasoned or prepared with light accompaniments. While the pairing offers an exciting adventure for those who appreciate powerful wines, opting for a more restrained red could allow the nuances of the partridge to shine more distinctly. |
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Barbaresco DOCG | Dobinmushi (matsutake mushroom soup) | Pairing Dobinmushi, a traditional Japanese matsutake mushroom soup, with Barbaresco brings out intriguing contrasts and depth. The broth’s delicate yet earthy flavours, infused with matsutake mushrooms, shrimp, and a hint of citrus, meet Barbaresco’s layers of red fruit, floral notes, and subtle earthiness. The wine’s tannic structure brings a subtle boldness that plays against the light, clean flavours of the soup, adding an unexpected complexity, however, the bold flavours of the wine will overwhelm the soup's delicate essence. |
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Barbaresco DOCG | Stuffed Monkfish | Barbaresco, with its powerful structure and aromatic depth, can be a bold match for stuffed monkfish. The wine’s dark fruit and floral notes bring intriguing contrasts to the dish, especially if the stuffing includes ingredients like herbs, garlic, or even earthy mushrooms. However, Barbaresco’s intense tannins and robust profile might overshadow the delicate, mild flavour of monkfish, particularly if the stuffing is kept light. |
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Barbaresco DOCG | Ecuadorian Chocolate | Ecuadorian chocolate and Barbaresco can create a captivating pairing, showcasing the complex flavours of both. The rich, fruity notes of Barbaresco, with its hints of dark cherry and plum, can beautifully contrast the intense cocoa richness of high-quality Ecuadorian chocolate. The wine's earthy undertones may echo the chocolate's depth, while its acidity balances the sweetness of the chocolate. |
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Barbaresco Riserva DOCG | Goose | Goose paired with Barbaresco Reserva creates a striking combination that showcases the richness of the meat alongside the wine’s robust characteristics. The gamey flavours of the goose, particularly when roasted or prepared with a fruit glaze, can stand up to the wine’s deep, earthy notes. Barbaresco Reserva, with its elevated acidity and well-integrated tannins, provides a refreshing contrast to the fat of the goose, cutting through its richness while enhancing the dish’s flavour profile. |
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Barbaresco Riserva DOCG | Ribeye Steak | Ribeye steak paired with Barbaresco Reserva creates an exceptional dining experience that highlights the robust flavours of both the meat and the wine. The marbled richness of the ribeye, with its tender and juicy texture, beautifully matches the earthy, tannic structure of Barbaresco Reserva. The wine's high acidity acts as a refreshing counterpoint to the steak's fat, ensuring that each bite is balanced and satisfying. The complex aromas of dark fruits, spices, and subtle herbal notes in the Barbaresco resonate with the grilled or seared flavours of the ribeye. |
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Barbaresco Riserva DOCG | Shimofuri Teppan (wagyu steak) | Barbaresco and Shimofuri Teppan create an enticing pairing, where the rich marbling and tender texture of the Japanese-style beef meet the wine’s nuanced structure. Shimofuri beef, known for its delicate, well-distributed fat, becomes even more decadent when seared on a hot teppan grill. Barbaresco’s refined tannins provide just enough grip to balance the melt-in-your-mouth quality of the beef, while its notes of dark cherry, rose, and earthy undertones resonate beautifully with the caramelized, umami-rich crust. The wine’s acidity cuts through the richness, keeping each bite refreshing and balanced, while enhancing the beef's subtle sweetness. |
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Barbaresco Riserva DOCG | Breaded Lamb Chops | The elegant tannins of an aged Barbaresco provide an excellent backdrop for Breaded Lamb Chops. The wine's structure stands up well to the rich flavours of the lamb, while its subtle spice notes are marvelously soaked up by the breading. |
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Barbaresco Riserva DOCG | Roast Wood Pigeon | An aged Barbaresco's elegant tannins pairs okay with Roast Wood Pigeon. The wine's vibrant acidity cuts through the rich, gamey flavours of the bird, while its undertones of truffle and earth echo the pigeon's natural habitat. However, the bold flavours will overwhelm the subtle flavours of the pigeon. |
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Barbaresco Riserva DOCG | Spit Roasted Partridge | Spit-roasted partridge served with Barbaresco Reserva creates an intriguing pairing that showcases the rich, gamey qualities of the bird. However, the wine's bold tannins and pronounced earthy notes might overshadow the more delicate flavours of the partridge, which can be quite subtle. The high acidity in Barbaresco Reserva does offer some balance, helping to cut through the richness of the meat, but it may still dominate the nuanced spices and smoky aromas from the roasting process. As a result, while the pairing can be enjoyable, it’s essential to consider that the wine’s intensity could mask the finer details of the dish. |
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Varietal | Food | Why This Pairing Works |
Barbaresco Paired with Duck in a Mushroom Sauce
Duck is full of protein and fat and has a gamey and earthy flavour that is exquisite with the aromatic and elegant nose of Barbaresco. If your duck features a fruit sauce, Barbaresco is a no-go. Barbaresco is too elegant for the sweet flavours of a dark cherry or berry reduction. Instead, you want to feature a red wine sauce or an earthy mushroom sauce to match the intensity of Barbaresco’s soft but astringent kiss.
The smoky, earthy and mineral notes of Barbaresco will complement the duck meat, while the fatty and protein-rich duck will enhance the wonderful flavours of Barbaresco. Meanwhile, the cherry, raspberry and blackberry flavours of Barbaresco will help shelter you from those gamy notes of duck that not everyone appreciates.
For similar reasons, Barbaresco is lovely with a hearty pasta in a rich duck sauce.
Barbaresco & Osso Buco
The rich and meaty flavours of Osso Buco along with a glass of an aromatic Barbaresco is the perfect cure for a winter’s evening chill. The rich flavours of Barbaresco will warm you up fast as they mingle with the stick-to-your-bones deep flavours of Osso Bucco.
Both Osso Buco and Barbaresco have an earthy flavour, so the wine and food complement one another. Meanwhile, Osso Buco’s deep flavours are further enlivened by Barbaresco’s high acidity and crushed dark fruit flavours.
Barbaresco & Roast Beef Pairing
When young, Barbaresco is very loud, and needs meaty and fatty dishes, such as a prime rib roast, or a ribeye steak to tame her tannin. When aged for two decades, or longer, Barbaresco’s elegance is refined, and leaner cuts of meat such as a simple pot roast or an elk steak are more suitable.
Barbaresco’s earthy and smoky notes are heavenly with the beefy flavours, and the proteins and fat showcase the wine at its best as it drives the complex tar, leather, licorice and tobacco flavours out into the open. Meanwhile, the black & red cherry, along with blackberry flavours, keep you well refreshed.
The earthy, mineral and truffle side of Barbaresco is right at home with any mushrooms or root vegetables accompanying your roast beef dinner.
Aged Barbaresco and Rabbit Pairing
An aged Barbaresco fares best with earthy yet leaner cuts of meat such as wild boar or rabbit. Both dishes are gamey, and Barbaresco swoops in with its complex layers of espresso, smoke, cherry, violets, vanilla and truffle distracting you from the gamey flavours. If your rabbit or wild boar is featured in a stew, or as part of a hearty pasta sauce and contains mushrooms or earthy vegetables, this pairing instantly becomes better!
Breaded Lamb Chops & Barbaresco Pairing
Barbaresco has notes of menthol which is a flavour that is often paired with lamb. Furthermore, the fruity flavours of Barbaresco mask the gamey notes of lamb, while the earthy, smoke, espresso and leather flavours of Barbaresco complement the delicate and subtle lamb flavours. The high acidity of Barbaresco lusciously cuts through the breading, releasing the lamb flavours across your tongue like the rolling out of the red carpet.
Barbaresco will go great with non-breaded Lamb Chops as well. I prefer oven-baked breaded lamb chops as the bread crumbs absorb all the delicious flavours of the lamb and wine, making every bite and sip taste harmonious.
Barbaresco FAQ
Barolo vs Barbaresco
The main difference between Barolo and Barbaresco is that Barolo is heavier and louder with its flavours of violet, roses, tar, cherry and plum, while Barbaresco is a little less loud and a lot more elegant in her approach. Barolo is hailed as the King of Red Wines due to its beefy tannin and bold flavours, whereas Barbaresco is hailed as the queen. Thus, you’ll want to keep Barbaresco away from fruity or berry-based sauces, as the flavours of the wine will be overwhelmed by their sweetness. With Barbaresco, you’ll need to stick to earthy sauces that are gravy, truffle, or mushroom-based, such as a hearty Beef Stroganoff.
Does Barbaresco need to be decanted?
Decant a young Barbaresco (that’s under five years old) for two hours before drinking. For older Barbaresco, decant for an hour and sample to see if it needs to open up futher.
Is Barbaresco a Dry Wine?
Yes, Barbaresco is very dry and leans more towards earthier flavours than fruit flavours. Barbaresco is not a red wine that will pair with sweet foods.
Barbaresco vs Barolo
Barolo is fruitier, heavier and bolder in flavour. While high in tannin, Barbaresco’s tannin won’t hit you as hard as Barolo.
Barolo must be aged a minimum of 3 years, whereas Barbaresco only requires 2 years.
Is Barbaresco a Super Tuscan?
No. Barbaresco is from Piedmont, Italy and is 100% Nebbiolo grape. A Super Tuscan is a wine from Tuscany that is blended with grapes that are not indigenous to the area (such as Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot or Cabernet Franc).
Barbaresco Profile
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