Nebbiolo Cloning Summary

Nebbiolo has several "clones": think of families within the same grape variety. The best-known are Lampia (most widely planted) and Michet (lower yield, often more concentrated). Winemakers regularly blend these clones for balance and complexity . Due to the warmer climate, they pay extra attention to cooler plots , higher-elevation vineyards , and clones that preserve freshness . In the cellar, you increasingly see larger, more neutral barrels for a pure Nebbiolo character, sometimes supplemented with barrique.

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What are clones anyway?

A clone isn't a different grape variety, but a selection within Nebbiolo with its own distinct character. Compare it to apple varieties: all apples, yet slightly different in flavor and texture. With Nebbiolo, this translates to color, aroma intensity, tannins, and yield .

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Back in time

Nebbiolo is one of Piedmont's oldest grapes. For centuries, it has been harvested late (often in October) and is known for its rose, tar, cherry , firm tannins, and high acidity—precisely the combination that makes Barolo so aging -friendly.

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The most famous clones in human language

• Lampia – the “all-rounder”. Reliable yield, good balance.

• Michet – often produces fewer grapes , but more concentration .

• Nebbiolo Rosé – historically mentioned alongside Lampia/Michet; lighter and more floral. It's less common these days.

In addition to these classics, growers and universities are using modern, certified selections (you sometimes see codes like CVT or VCR). The goal: healthy vines , more consistent quality , and a style suited to today's climate .

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Why do winemakers blend clones?

For the same reason you can blend different plots or barrels:

• Balance between colour, aroma, structure and alcohol.

• Complexity : more layers in the glass.

• Consistency from year to year: one year Lampia helps, the next year Michet.

In short: a blend of clones often brings balance to the wine.

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What does Nebbiolo need to shine?

• Location : sunny slopes with a preference for south(west) exposures.

• Soil : chalky marl—that’s where Nebbiolo feels at home.

• Patience : late maturation and firm tannins require time (in barrel and bottle).

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Climate: what is changing?

Warmer summers and drier periods mean that winemakers:

• more often choose cooler, higher plots;

• select clones that retain freshness and color better;

• manage the leaf wall (foliage) differently for shade and slower ripening .

The result: a Barolo that is ripe, yet retains tension and freshness .

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Does this have an effect in the basement?

Yes, but subtly. In the 1990s, barrique (small oak barrels) gained ground for added polish. Today, many top estates are once again using larger, more neutral barrels (botti/foeders) to allow the pure Nebbiolo fruit and terroir to shine. Some producers still use a small portion of barrique for nuance—it's not a dogma.

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Tasting tips for you

• Do you love power and structure? Look for producers who use Michet or plots with extra concentration.

• Looking for elegance and perfume? Look for wines with a Lampia focus or cooler crus.

• Maturation : Give Barolo time (and a generous glass). A few hours of decanting can work wonders.

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Frequently Asked Questions

1) Is Nebbiolo Rosé a clone?
Not exactly: it's often considered a standalone variety (though historically it was included in the same category). For you as a connoisseur: expect a lighter color and more floral notes.

2) Which clones do you encounter most often?
In Barolo, Lampia is the most widely planted grape. Michet is used for added concentration. Modern selections build on this.

3) Why does one Barolo taste darker or more powerful than another?
This is due to the clones , plot/height , ripeness , and barrel selection . All of these factors together determine the color, tannin, and body.

4) Does climate change the taste of Barolo?
Yes, the fruit often ripens faster . The best producers adjust this by cultivating cooler plots , choosing clones wisely, and using more gentle wood aging .

5) Does clone mixing affect storage potential?
A good mix can improve balance —and balance is a key to great aging .

Taste and discover our Nebbiolo/Barolo wines from small family winemakers and enjoy the beautiful wines made from the Nebbiolo grape.