“Is Barolo a grape? Is Nebbiolo a wine style?”

In Malaysia, as more wine drinkers are starting to discovering the beauty of Italian reds, many might still get stuck on one question: what’s the difference between Nebbiolo and Barolo?

Weather you've done some research on your own or it's your first time coming across these two different styles of wine, we're here to break it down so you can sip smarter and know which one to pick for your own preference! 

The Red Italian Wine Grape: Nebbiolo

Nebbiolo is best known for producing the famous Barolo and Barbaresco wines from Piedmont, Italy. It is distinguished by its pale color, high acidity, and rich tannins, which provide a structure that permits the wine to age beautifully over decades. While its look suggests a lighter-bodied wine, Nebbiolo offers a full-bodied taste with complex scents of red fruit, flowers, tar, and soil. 

The Prestigious Italian Red Wine: Barolo

Barolo wines are produced in the Piedmont region, specifically in the Langhe hills, near the town of Barolo. It's made from 100% Nebbiolo grapes and is known for its full body, high tannins, and potential for aging. Often called the "king of wines," Barolo is loved by many beginner to advanced wine drinkers for its complex flavors and aromas, which evolve beautifully over time. 

The Key Differences Between Nebbiolo & Barolo

• What it is:

  • Nebbiolo – A red grape variety grown mainly in Piedmont, Italy.

  • Barolo – A DOCG wine made only from Nebbiolo grapes grown in the Barolo region.

• Geography:

  • Nebbiolo – Found across several Piedmont appellations (e.g., Langhe Nebbiolo, Roero) and in Lombardy’s Valtellina.

  • Barolo – Restricted to 11 communes in the Barolo DOCG zone of Piedmont.

• Ageing Requirements:

  • Nebbiolo – Usually released earlier, with shorter ageing (often less than 2 years).

  • Barolo – Must age at least 38 months (including 18 months in oak); Riserva requires 62 months.

• Flavour Profile:

  • Nebbiolo – Lighter body, fresher fruit notes (cherry, raspberry), pronounced tannins, floral and herbal hints.

  • Barolo – Fuller-bodied, more structured, with deep flavours (tar, roses, dried fruit, spice) and long ageing potential.

• Price Point:

  • Nebbiolo – More affordable, ideal for everyday drinking or for those new to the grape.

  • Barolo – Premium pricing due to strict production rules, long ageing, and prestige.

How to Enjoy & Where To Buy Them in Malaysia

Exploring Nebbiolo and Barolo wine side by side is like tasting two chapters of the same story, giving you a deeper appreciation of how terroir and winemaking style transform the same grape. When it comes to pairing, both Nebbiolo and Barolo pair beautifully Malaysian local dishes that offer a vibrant tapestry of flavors. Here's how you can enjoy them:

• Food Pairings:

  • Nebbiolo – Char siu, roast duck, satay.

  • Barolo – Rendang, braised short ribs, aged cheeses, lamb curry.

• Occasion:

  • Nebbiolo – Weeknight dinners, casual gatherings, lighter meals.

  • Barolo – Special occasions, fine dining, bottles to cellar and enjoy years later.

Now Available In Malaysia

Good news for all the wine lovers in Malaysia - you don't have to book tickets to Italy to try these two amazing wines. Click here to get Italy’s most iconic red grape in two very different expressions delivered right to your doorstep!