We're thrilled to invite you to what might be our favorite seminar of the year: a comprehensive tasting of Produttori del Barbaresco—all 9 single-cru bottlings with our very own Italian wine specialist, Flori Kennedy. This is the legendary cooperative that has defined what single-cru Barbaresco can be for over six decades.
On Wednesday, December 10th from 5-7pm, we'll taste through the complete current release lineup from this iconic producer—a rare opportunity to experience the full spectrum of terroir diversity across Barbaresco's most celebrated vineyards, all in one evening.
For those unfamiliar, Produttori del Barbaresco isn't just another cooperative. Founded in 1958 by 19 growers determined to preserve their independence and identity, they revolutionized the idea of what a cooperative could achieve. Rather than blending everything together, they vinify and bottle each of Barbaresco's nine historic crus separately, allowing the distinct personalities of each vineyard to shine through. The result? Some of the most terroir-transparent, age-worthy Nebbiolo in all of Piedmont—at prices that remain shockingly reasonable given their quality.
This seminar will take you on a journey through Barbaresco's geological and historical landscape as we dive into each individual vineyard. You'll taste the perfume and structure of Asili, the power and liquorish aromas of Rabajà, the elegance of Pora, and discover why certain crus age differently than others. We'll discuss how soil composition, elevation, and exposure shape each vineyard's character, explore vintage variation, and talk about optimal drinking windows.
Why this seminar matters: Produttori represents the soul of Barbaresco—small growers, meticulous farming, traditional winemaking, and an unwavering commitment to expressing place. Understanding these crus means understanding Barbaresco itself.
Flori has been studying and enjoying Italian wine since 1987, when we lived in Rome, and hasn't stopped since. Her journey in wine has taken her from top SF restaurants to serving as Wine Director at the Jug Shop, teaching enology at UCSF, and eventually being knighted by the Piedmont government for her work with Italian wine. Through it all, Produttori has remained a constant benchmark for what great Nebbiolo should be. This is the kind of tasting that deepens your appreciation not just for Barbaresco, but for the entire Langhe.
What we'll cover:
- The history and cooperative model of Produttori del Barbaresco
- Barbaresco's nine historic crus and their distinctive characteristics
- How soil, elevation, and exposure influence each vineyard
- Tasting through the complete lineup to understand terroir expression
- Vintage variation and aging potential
- Why these wines remain among Piedmont's greatest values
Seating is limited to 16 guests. Tickets are $75 and include the full guided tasting of 9 wines.
This is essential education for anyone serious about Nebbiolo and the wines of Piedmont. We hope you'll join us for what promises to be an unforgettable evening.