It’s always fun at the Berry Bros & Rudd press tastings, because they show such good wines. Today’s tasting, in the cellars below their shop in St James’ St, was no exception.
David Berry Green, pictured above, has revitalized their Italian range, and today he took the unusual step of showing 15 Langhe Nebbiolos, of which only three were stocked by BBR. It was an inspired decision, and showed how interesting and elegant Langhe Nebbiolo can be. I had a number of favourites from the rest of the BBR Italian range, one of which was the bottle David is holding: the Manuel Marinacci Barbaresco 2007, which is superbly elegant, supple and fine, and a bargain at £27.50.
Another treat was a chance to taste 13 top wines from the 2000 vintage in Bordeaux, with Leoville Barton, Palmer, Lynch Bages, Pichon Baron, Gruaud Larose and Giscours being my favourites. 2000 is a cracking vintage, just entering its drinking window it seems.
Finally, some fizz. It was great to be able to taste some serious Cava, with four wines from Gramona, three of which were world class, in my opinion. We also had some lovely grower Champagnes. 2002 Pierre Peters Les Chetillons, 2004 Guy Larmandier Cramant Grand Cru and R&L Legras St Vincent 1996 were all brilliant.
Interesting move from BBR. There’s not enough attention given to Langhe Nebbiolo (IMO), perhaps a change of focus from away Barolo?
Agree! It was a great tasting. Very focused on themes and ideas. And not afraid to show the wines in a particular way, ie so many Nebbiolo Langhe (hooray!), a selection of bdx 2000s and even how the Tondonia was lined up as rose, then red then white. BBR are thinking. Enjoyed it a lot.
Juel
Marinacci is a star, his selling technique in Italy is wonderful and somewhat unique, and very refreshing. Doesnt take no for an answer or refuse to bow down to greater names Barbaresco. Also makes another interesting wine, Tango!!