Serracapelli

Serracapelli occupies the northern fringe of the Barbaresco DOCG zone within the commune of Neive, one of the three townships that make up the appellation alongside Barbaresco itself and Treiso. At approximately 300 meters above sea level, it sits comfortably within the elevation range typical of quality Barbaresco sites. The southwest aspect ensures the vineyard captures afternoon sun, aiding phenolic ripeness in Nebbiolo, a variety that demands warmth to fully ripen its notoriously firm tannin structure. The site is described as a patch of land rich in natural biodiversity, suggesting a varied microenvironment that adds complexity to the wines produced here.

• Commune: Neive, one of three communes in Barbaresco DOCG
• Elevation: approximately 300 meters above sea level
• Aspect: southwest-facing, ideal for Nebbiolo ripening
• Northern limit of the Barbaresco appellation

The soils at Serracapelli combine calcareous marl with limestone and sandy-limestone components. Calcareous marl is the signature substrate of the Langhe hills and is closely associated with the aromatic finesse and structural tension found in Barbaresco. The sandy elements in the mix tend to moderate tannin weight and contribute to perfume expression, while limestone aids water retention and imparts mineral character. The broader Barbaresco climate carries a slight maritime influence from the Tanaro River, and the zone as a whole is warmer and drier than neighboring Barolo, allowing earlier and more consistent ripening of Nebbiolo.

• Calcareous marl is the dominant soil type, consistent with classic Barbaresco terroir
• Mixed sandy and limestone components moderate tannin and boost aromatic expression
• Slight maritime influence from the Tanaro River tempers the continental climate
• Warmer and drier conditions compared to Barolo support reliable Nebbiolo ripening

Serracapelli holds MGA status, the Italian designation for Menzione Geografica Aggiuntiva, which translates broadly as Additional Geographic Mention. This classification system was formally developed for Barbaresco between 2007 and 2010 and resulted in 66 officially recognized subzones across the appellation. The MGAs allow producers to identify the specific cru origin of their wine on the label, providing a framework analogous to Premier and Grand Cru classifications in Burgundy, though without a formal quality hierarchy between sites. Serracapelli's recognition within this system underlines its standing as a distinct terroir worthy of individual identification.

• MGA status granted under the 2007 to 2010 Barbaresco subzone classification
• 66 MGAs are officially recognized across the entire Barbaresco DOCG
• MGA labeling allows producers to identify single-vineyard or subzone origins
• No formal quality ranking exists between MGAs; all carry equal legal status

Nebbiolo is the sole grape grown at Serracapelli for Barbaresco DOCG production. The wines express the variety's classic profile of dark cherry and plum fruit alongside licorice, dried rose, and violet florals, underpinned by firm, structured tannins and vibrant acidity. The southwest exposure and calcareous soils tend to produce wines with good concentration and aging potential. Notable producers working with fruit from this site include Cecilia Monte, Elio Filippino, Poderi Elia, and Minerdi, a group that reflects the small-scale, family-oriented production typical of the Neive commune.

• Sole grape variety: Nebbiolo, as required under Barbaresco DOCG regulations
• Flavor hallmarks: dark cherry, plum, licorice, dried rose, and violet
• Structure: firm tannins and high acidity support medium to long aging
• Producers: Cecilia Monte, Elio Filippino, Poderi Elia, Minerdi