In this episode of The Second Glass, we dive into one of the most paradoxical grapes in the wine world: Nebbiolo—the pale, fragile-looking fruit that somehow produces some of Italy’s most powerful and age-worthy wines.

We break down Nebbiolo with absolute clarity:

• Origins & Identity — why it thrives only in a few corners of Piedmont

• Structure & Style — high tannin, high acid, light color, but massive impact

• Signature Aromas — rose, tar, cherry, anise, dried herbs

• Terroir Influence — how slope, aspect, fog, and soil create dramatic style shifts

• Barolo vs. Barbaresco — what truly separates the two

• Modern vs. Traditional winemaking — long maceration? barriques? botti?

• Other Nebbiolo zones — Langhe, Gattinara, Valtellina and why they matter

• How to recognize Nebbiolo blind — the non-negotiable tells

• Food pairings & serving tips — what actually works with all that tannin

Whether you're studying for CSW, WSET, CMS, or just obsessed with Italian wine, this episode gives you the mental map you wish you’d had sooner.

Pour a glass, sharpen your palate, and let’s decode Nebbiolo—one of the most misunderstood noble grapes on earth.