My recent trip to Florence had a clear goal: meeting Pamela, a close friend of Sergio (my travel companion), who had sent me a carefully curated selection of Italian wines — among them, this Barolo 2020 by Demarie. The idea was to taste them and, if they convinced me, help her find an importer in Spain for the wineries she represents.
I also had the pleasure of sharing dinner with Pam at one of the best pizzerias in Florence. Of course, the conversation revolved around wines. She told me about the wineries she works with, her many trips to Asia, the US and across Europe, where she presents her wines and collects awards. Behind each bottle, there is a lot of passion and hard work — and you could feel that in every word.
Among all the bottles I received, this Barolo 2020 by Demarie stood out on its own merit.
The story of Demarie: three generations in the heart of Piedmont
Demarie Winery, located in Vezza d’Alba, in the heart of Langhe and Roero, has been lovingly cultivating 28 hectares of vineyards for more than three generations. Their philosophy combines deep respect for tradition with a forward-looking, sustainable approach.
Their portfolio includes some of the great classics of Piedmont: Barolo, Barbaresco, Nebbiolo, Barbera, Roero Arneis, Moscato… They have also been pioneers in creating distinctive wines such as their orange wine “Sabbia” (recognized internationally), and their Pet-Nat “Luigi”, made from Arneis grapes and already featured in select Armani wine bars in New York and Tokyo.
Tasting Barolo 2020 by Demarie
To properly taste it, I organised a lunch at home with a few friends. I wanted to enjoy it with good company and with someone who could really appreciate it. Among the guests was a well-respected sommelier and winemaker — and a good friend — who helped me prepare these tasting notes.
I’m no expert in Italian wines, and that’s precisely why I felt this Barolo 2020 by Demarie deserved to be treated with proper care and respect. I love wine, I enjoy sharing it and talking about it, but when it comes to something serious — and even more so when supporting a good friend’s best friend — I believe both the wine and the story must be done justice. So, we approached it with great care… and, needless to say, we enjoyed it immensely.
The wine, made from 100 % Nebbiolo grapes, impresses with its balance between classic style and approachability.
In the glass, it shows a medium intensity garnet colour. On the nose, it offers a high aromatic intensity: red fruits, plums, violets, and spicy notes. On the palate, it is powerful and full-bodied, with silky tannins and vibrant acidity that perfectly balances its 14.5 % ABV. The finish is long and elegant, with a subtle balsamic touch that rounds out the experience.
A wine that brought a little piece of Piedmont to Cambrils — and one I’ll definitely be opening again.
More about the winery: https://demarie.com
For wine importers in Spain: an opportunity
If you’re a wine importer in Spain and would like to know more about the wines from Demarie or other boutique Italian wineries represented by Pamela, feel free to get in touch. I’d be happy to connect you with her.
I truly believe these wines have great character and would be a fantastic addition to any portfolio of quality Italian wines in the Spanish market.