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Rivetti

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Rivetti is one of the most prestigious MGAs in Barbaresco DOCG, covering 79 hectares in the Neive commune. Sandy Lequio formation soils and a south-facing ridge above the Tinella stream give its Nebbiolo a distinctive balsamic character and freshness. The Dante Rivetti family has farmed this land since the mid-1800s.

Key Facts
  • Official MGA designation established in 2007, one of 66 Barbaresco subzones
  • Located in the Neive commune of Barbaresco DOCG, Piedmont
  • Total area of 79 hectares on the southern ridge of the Tinella stream
  • Soils derived from the Lequio formation: sandy with calcareous marl
  • Grows exclusively Nebbiolo for Barbaresco DOCG production
  • Known for wines with balsamic notes, elegance, and freshness
  • Dante Rivetti family has farmed in Neive since the mid-1800s

📍Location and Setting

Rivetti sits within the Neive commune of Barbaresco DOCG, positioned on the southern ridge above the Tinella stream. This elevated, south-facing orientation is central to the MGA's identity, providing excellent sun exposure for Nebbiolo ripening. The Tanaro River, which defines much of the broader Langhe climate, exerts a moderate moderating influence on the area's otherwise continental character, helping to preserve aromatic freshness in the finished wines.

  • Southern ridge position above the Tinella stream
  • Continental climate with moderate Tanaro River influence
  • Located in Neive, one of four communes in Barbaresco DOCG
  • One of 66 officially recognized Barbaresco MGAs

🪨Soils and Terroir

Rivetti's soils belong to the Lequio formation, a geological unit characterized by alternating layers of sand and calcareous marl. The higher sand content distinguishes Rivetti from the more clay-dominant Tortonian soils found in Barbaresco and Treiso communes. Sandier soils generally promote earlier drainage, encourage deeper root growth, and contribute to wines of greater aromatic lift and finesse rather than sheer structural power. The calcareous marl component adds minerality and supports the vine's ability to regulate water intake through dry growing seasons.

  • Lequio formation soils, more sandy than typical Barbaresco terroir
  • Calcareous marl component contributes minerality and structure
  • Sandy texture promotes drainage and aromatic complexity
  • Soil type is a key driver of the MGA's signature elegance
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🍇Wine Character

Barbaresco from Rivetti is recognized for its balsamic aromatic profile, a descriptor frequently linked to Neive's sandier Lequio soils. Expect dried herbs, eucalyptus, and red cherry rather than the brooding dark fruit associated with heavier clay terroirs. The wines tend toward elegance and freshness, with fine-grained tannins and lively acidity typical of Nebbiolo grown in well-drained sandy substrates. While all Barbaresco must meet DOCG aging requirements, Rivetti's style leans toward approachability relative to some of the more tannic expressions from Barbaresco and Treiso.

  • Balsamic notes are the defining aromatic signature
  • Elegance and freshness characterize the wine style
  • Red cherry, dried herbs, and eucalyptus are typical descriptors
  • Fine-grained tannins supported by bright natural acidity
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📜History and Heritage

The Rivetti name carries deep local roots. The Dante Rivetti family has farmed land in Neive since the mid-1800s, making them one of the longstanding agricultural families of the Langhe. The MGA classification system for Barbaresco was officially established in 2007 by the Consorzio di Tutela Barbaresco, codifying 66 subzones that had long been recognized informally by growers and merchants. Rivetti's inclusion among these 66 MGAs confirmed its standing as one of the Neive commune's most respected vineyard sites.

  • Dante Rivetti family farming the area since the mid-1800s
  • MGA system established in 2007 by the Barbaresco Consorzio
  • Rivetti recognized as one of the most prestigious Barbaresco MGAs
  • Long informal recognition preceded the 2007 official classification
Flavor Profile

Balsamic herbs, eucalyptus, dried red cherry, and wild strawberry, underpinned by fine tannins, vibrant acidity, and a mineral thread from calcareous marl soils. Elegance and freshness define the style rather than concentration or weight.

Food Pairings
Braised rabbit with herbs and white wineRoast lamb with rosemary and garlicAged Parmigiano-Reggiano or Castelmagno cheeseTajarin pasta with truffle butterHerb-crusted duck breastVitello tonnato as a classic Piedmontese pairing
Wines to Try
  • Dante Rivetti Barbaresco Rivetti MGA$60-90
    Estate wine from the family that gave the MGA its name, grown on Lequio formation soils since the 1800s.Find →
How to Say It
Rivettiree-VET-tee
Menzione Geografica Aggiuntivamen-TSYOH-neh jeh-oh-GRAH-fee-kah ah-joon-TEE-vah
Nebbioloneh-BYOH-loh
Tinellatee-NEL-lah
📝Exam Study NotesWSET / CMS
  • Rivetti is one of 66 MGAs (Menzione Geografica Aggiuntiva) established for Barbaresco DOCG in 2007
  • Located in the Neive commune; soils are Lequio formation with higher sand content and calcareous marl
  • The sandier soil profile drives the MGA's signature balsamic, elegant, fresh wine style
  • The Dante Rivetti family has farmed this site since the mid-1800s, anchoring its historical prestige
  • The Tinella stream defines the southern ridge where the vineyard sits; Tanaro River provides moderate climate influence