Ep 248 – Barolo vs Barbaresco: Nebbiolo, Terroir & Biotypes Explained with Ian D’Agata

In this wonderfully geeky and genuinely fascinating episode, Janina is joined by Ian D’Agata , one of the world’s leading authorities on Italian wine, to unpack the real differences between Barolo and Barbaresco — far beyond the usual shortcuts. From Nebbiolo’s biotypes and soil types to climate, communes, MGAs and practical tasting tips, this is a deep yet accessible guide for anyone who wants to better understand why Nebbiolo remains one of the most compelling and misunderstood grapes in the world. Stay until the end for a special giveaway courtesy of Ian himself. Shownotes 02:32 What first drew Ian to Barolo and Barbaresco. 04:52 What is Nebbiolo? Aromas, structure and what makes it so unique. 07:15 How geography, soils and place shape Nebbiolo wines. 08:16 Finding new angles after decades of writing about Italian wine. 09:48 Ian’s favourite lesser-known native grape from Northern Italy. 11:14 A favourite lesser-known native grape from Southern Italy. 13:21 The most beautiful wine region in Italy — purely for its landscape. 14:32 Traditional vs modern Barolo — does the distinction still make sense? 17:36 Barbaresco explained — not a “softer Barolo”, but a different wine entirely. 23:05 Climate and soil differences — how the same grape creates very different wines. 24:14 Nebbiolo biotypes — what they are and why they matter. 30:23 Why so few people talk about biotypes in famous grape varieties. 34:44 What surprised Ian most while researching Barbaresco Terroir , following his earlier work on Barolo Terroir . 36:31 Is there a different attitude to Nebbiolo in Barbaresco compared to Barolo? 37:58 Practical tasting exercises to help students understand Nebbiolo. 41:47 The 181 MGAs — communes, crus and how to approach them without fear. 45:49 Real-world examples of communes and MGA differences. 46:52 Which recent vintages are best to buy and store. 48:02 Older vintages to grab and open today. 49:40 Where to find great-value Nebbiolo without buying a 20-year-old Barolo. 54:36 Two tickets giveaway — how to enter and what’s included. 📩 Questions or feedback? janina@eatsleepwinerepeat.co.uk 📸 Instagram: @eatsleep_winerepeat 🎥 YouTube: Eat Sleep Wine Repeat 🌐 Website: www.eatsleepwinerepeat.co.uk Cheers to you! 🥂 THE EAT SLEEP WINE REPEAT PODCAST Featured in Decanter Magazine and Radio Times , and ranked among the Top UK Wine Podcasts by Feedspot. RECOGNITION: – Finalist, 67 Pall Mall Award for Best Global Wine Communicator in Audio (2025) – Shortlisted, IWSC Emerging Talent in Wine Communication (2025) – Ranked #18 in 2024 and #22 in 2025 on Drinks Retailing’s Most Influential People in Drinks list