Barbaresco Riserva Giacomo Borgogno & Figli 1969
This 1969 Barbaresco Riserva is a historic red wine produced by Giacomo Borgogno & Figli. Founded in 1761, the estate is one of the oldest wine houses in the region, possessing a historical depth matched by very few Italian producers. Located in the town of Barolo, Borgogno played a central role during the 18th and 19th centuries in defining the modern, dry style of the local wines, assisted by French winemaker Louis Oudart in the mid-1800s. The estate is renowned for its uncompromising traditionalism and classic aging in large wooden casks, known as botti. The label proudly displays the crest year of 1848 and the motto "Labore Cum Honore Pro Patria."
The wine is crafted entirely from Nebbiolo, an Italian top grape known for providing great structure, grown in the Barbaresco area of Piemonte. Situated in the Langhe hills east of Alba, Barbaresco is celebrated for producing an elegant counterpart to the neighboring Barolo. The Piemonte region, bordered by the Alps, is characterized by dramatic, steep hills that are often enveloped in thick autumn morning fog, which protects the grapes and ensures a long ripening period. The 1969 vintage in this area, which achieved a score of 83 points, is described as having fine acidity, but being a bit thin.
Classified as a Denominazione d'Origine Controllata (DOC) Riserva, this wine represents a continuous winemaking tradition that spans over two and a half centuries. Although the Borgogno family sold the estate to the Farinetti family in 2008, the modern ownership has carefully preserved the house's classic style, ensuring that Borgogno remains one of the deepest historical lines in Piemonte's wine culture.
The history of the wine
Below, you can delve into the history of this wine — its producer, grape, area, and region.
Piedmont
Piedmont (which literally means "at the foot of the mountain") is located in northwestern Italy, surrounded by the Alps. It is considered one of the world's absolute most prestigious wine regions. The area is known for small, passionate, family-run wineries and a huge focus on terroir (how the soil and microclimate affect the wine).
Classic characteristics of Piedmont:
The royal wines: This is where the world-famous, complex and expensive red wines Barolo and Barbaresco come from (both made from 100% Nebbiolo).
Everyday heroes: In addition to Nebbiolo, the region is famous for the grapes Barbera (juicy, acidic and incredibly popular) and Dolcetto (dark, soft and fruity).
The white and sweet: Piedmont also makes the crisp white wine Gavi and the famous, lightly sparkling dessert bubbles Moscato d'Asti.
The landscape: Dramatic, steep hills – especially in the Langhe sub-area. The hills are often shrouded in thick morning mist in autumn, which protects the grapes and allows for a long, perfect ripening.
Gastronomy: An absolute mecca for food lovers. The area is world famous for the exclusive white truffles from Alba, hazelnuts and rich, simmered dishes that scream with a glass of local red wine.
When this wine was made, the world looked very different. Here are some of the stories that unfolded while this bottle quietly aged in its cellar.
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How it handles
you your wine
Storage
Store the bottle horizontally at 12–14°C and avoid direct sunlight, vibrations, and temperature fluctuations.
Opening
Allow the bottle to stand upright for 24–48 hours before opening to allow sediment to settle. Use a professional corkscrew and open carefully.
Enjoyment
Serve at 17–18°C and be patient – there is a great difference in how and how quickly wines open up when they are aerated.
GUIDE TO THE GOOD WINE EXPERIENCE
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