Rizzi winery
Rizzi is a family-owned winery located in the heart of the Barbaresco appellation in Piedmont, Italy. Established in 1974 by Ernesto Dellapiana, Rizzi has grown from a modest estate into one of the region’s most respected producers, celebrated for its dedication to quality and tradition. The estate covers over 40 hectares of vineyards, with prime holdings in some of Barbaresco’s most prestigious crus, including Rizzi, Pajoré, and Nervo. These vineyards are situated on the rolling hills surrounding the village of Treiso, where the unique combination of clay-limestone soils and optimal microclimate provides ideal conditions for cultivating Nebbiolo, the grape at the heart of Barbaresco.
Today, the winery is managed by Ernesto’s children, Enrico and Jole Dellapiana, who have carried forward their father’s vision while embracing modern viticultural and winemaking techniques. The family’s approach is rooted in respect for the land and sustainable practices, with an emphasis on minimal intervention both in the vineyard and the cellar. Rizzi’s vineyards are farmed with great attention to biodiversity and environmental stewardship, ensuring the health of the vines and the longevity of the terroir for future generations.
Rizzi’s portfolio focuses on classic expressions of Barbaresco, crafted exclusively from Nebbiolo grapes. The estate produces several single-vineyard Barbaresco wines, each reflecting the distinct characteristics of its site. The Barbaresco Rizzi, sourced from the estate’s namesake cru, is known for its elegance and aromatic complexity, while Barbaresco Pajoré offers a more structured and intense profile. Barbaresco Nervo, another standout, combines finesse with vibrant fruit and minerality. In addition to their flagship Barbaresco wines, Rizzi also produces Dolcetto d’Alba, Barbera d’Alba, and Langhe Nebbiolo, showcasing the diversity of Piedmont’s indigenous varieties.
In the cellar, Enrico Dellapiana oversees a winemaking process that balances tradition with innovation. Fermentation takes place in temperature-controlled stainless steel tanks, followed by aging in large Slavonian oak casks, which impart subtlety and allow the purity of the Nebbiolo fruit to shine. The resulting wines are marked by their aromatic precision, depth, and ability to age gracefully, embodying the essence of Barbaresco’s terroir.
Rizzi has earned critical acclaim for its consistently high-quality wines and commitment to authenticity. The estate’s Barbaresco bottlings are regularly praised for their balance, complexity, and reflection of site-specific nuances. As a family-run operation, Rizzi maintains a close connection to its roots, with a hands-on approach that extends from vineyard management to bottling. Visitors to the estate are welcomed with genuine hospitality, offering an immersive experience that highlights the beauty of the Langhe landscape and the artistry behind each bottle.
With a legacy spanning nearly five decades, Rizzi stands as a testament to the enduring appeal of Barbaresco and the dedication of the Dellapiana family. Through careful stewardship of their land and a passion for crafting expressive, terroir-driven wines, Rizzi continues to play a vital role in shaping the reputation of Piedmont as one of the world’s premier wine regions.