Rizzi (MGA)

Rizzi is a Menzione Geografica Aggiuntiva (MGA) within the Barbaresco DOCG, straddling two communes: Treiso and San Rocco Seno d'Elvio. At 10 hectares, it is a compact site sitting at elevations between 220 and 310 meters. The south and south-west facing orientation maximizes sunlight exposure while the elevation helps maintain the cool, elegant growing conditions that define wines from this part of the Langhe.

• MGA classification shared between Treiso and San Rocco Seno d'Elvio
• 10 hectares total vineyard area
• Elevation range of 220-310 meters provides thermal variation across the site
• South and south-west aspect ensures consistent sunlight throughout the growing season

The soils at Rizzi are white marl, clayey-calcareous in character, with sandy layers interspersed throughout the profile. This combination gives the wines their structural backbone from the clay and calcareous components while the sandy layers contribute finesse and lift to the aromatic profile. The climate is described as cool and elegant, with good sunlight exposure thanks to the favorable aspect, a combination that encourages slow, even ripening of Nebbiolo and the development of complex tertiary aromas over time.

• White marl with clayey-calcareous base soil
• Sandy layers add textural complexity and aromatic lift
• Cool conditions preserve natural acidity in the fruit
• Good sunlight exposure supports full phenolic ripeness

Rizzi's reputation stretches back well over a century. In 1898, Professor Domizio Kavastsa highlighted the site as one of the best crus in the Barbaresco zone, placing it in elite company long before the MGA system was formalized. Despite this early recognition, the first commercially labeled Barbaresco Rizzi was not produced until 1974, when Cantina Rizzi bottled its inaugural release. That landmark vintage marked the beginning of Rizzi's modern identity as a named single-vineyard Barbaresco.

• Recognized as a top Barbaresco cru by Professor Kavastsa in 1898
• First labeled Barbaresco Rizzi produced by Cantina Rizzi in 1974
• Over 125 years of documented recognition as a quality site
• Now formally designated as an MGA under Barbaresco DOCG regulations

Barbaresco from Rizzi is known for a classical style, combining fresh fruit with underbrush notes, firm but refined tannins, and genuine aging potential. The cool growing conditions emphasize elegance over power, producing wines that reward cellaring without sacrificing early aromatic appeal. Cantina Rizzi is the estate most closely associated with this MGA, given its founding role in establishing the cru's reputation under its own name. Adriano Marco e Vittorio also works fruit from the vineyard, bringing additional perspectives on the terroir.

• Classical style: fresh fruit, underbrush, elegance, and longevity
• Cool conditions emphasize finesse over body weight
• Notable producers: Cantina Rizzi and Adriano Marco e Vittorio
• Wines suitable for medium to long-term cellaring