As an expert sommelier and brewer, I can confidently say that classic Langhe Nebbiolo wines are generally dry. Nebbiolo is a red grape variety primarily grown in the Piedmont region of Italy, and it is known for producing wines with high acidity, firm tannins, and complex flavors. These wines are typically dry, meaning they contain very little residual sugar.
However, it is important to note that there can be variations within the Nebbiolo category. While most Langhe Nebbiolo wines are dry, there are instances where winemakers may produce sweet or off-dry versions. These variations can come from different winemaking techniques or the use of specific vineyard sites.
In general, the sweetness in a wine comes from the residual sugar left in the wine after fermentation. If a winemaker chooses to halt fermentation before all the sugar is converted into alcohol, they can create a sweet or off-dry wine. This can be achieved by chilling the wine or adding sulfur dioxide to stop the fermentation process.
It is worth mentioning that the Langhe region encompasses various appellations, including Barolo and Barbaresco, which are known for their dry, powerful, and age-worthy Nebbiolo wines. These wines are typically fermented to dryness, resulting in minimal residual sugar.
However, there are other Nebbiolo-based wines from the region that can exhibit sweetness. For example, in the Nebbiolo d'Alba DOC appellation, winemakers have the flexibility to produce sweet or even sparkling Nebbiolo wines. In these cases, the winemakers may choose to leave some residual sugar in the wine, resulting in a sweeter profile.
Personal experiences and situations can also shed light on the topic. I have had the opportunity to taste various Nebbiolo wines from the Langhe region, and the majority of them have been dry with pronounced tannins and acidity. These wines often showcase flavors of red fruits, tar, roses, and earthiness, and they pair wonderfully with rich, hearty dishes.
While classic Langhe Nebbiolo wines are dry, there are instances where winemakers produce sweet or off-dry versions, particularly in the Nebbiolo d'Alba DOC appellation. It is always important to read the label or consult with a knowledgeable sommelier to determine the sweetness level of a specific Nebbiolo wine.