Until Nebbiolo appeared on our radar, most people had Pinot Noir right at the top of the class. Yes, back in 1998, only Pinot Noir – predominantly hailing from Burgundy along with a few super examples from Oz, New Zealand and America - compelled people to stage dinners and tastings and gather specifically to worship and argue about it. They…we, became members of clubs or cults! And it’s been from the ranks of the Pinot-philes that Nebbiolo has lured a large number of its recruits – some even renouncing former false idols!

The fascination both varieties elicit in us is based on a range of things: on their unfolding aromatic complexities and dance in the mouth and that they so readily ‘speak’ of where they come from. That they can vary so much from vineyard to vineyard, often even from neighbouring plots, just adds to the mystique. That Nebbiolo is the more broadly food-friendly of the two and is even (notwithstanding those tannins) generally useable a bit sooner might even put a nose out in front in this two-horse race.

So, by 1998, I realised this grape I was so keen on was clearly the next big thing! Not just the next little big thing, but a variety that makes wine to rival Pinot Noir, the only other grape that makes people act silly. And the idea of Club Nebb was born....

David Ridge
Founder and Director of David Ridge Wines