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Barolo & Barbaresco Academy Series: A Celebration of Italian Wine in the Southwest

The renowned Consorzio di Tutela Barolo Barbaresco Alba Langhe e Dogliani is thrilled to announce the launch of the prestigious Barolo & Barbaresco Academy Series, set to commence in February 2025. This innovative event series aims to educate wine professionals and enthusiasts about the exquisite wines from the Barolo and Barbaresco regions, all while promoting their unique heritage and significance in the world of winemaking.

For the first time ever, the Academy Series will travel to six prominent cities across the southwestern United States, specifically targeting wine-loving communities in Dallas, Houston, Austin, San Antonio, Phoenix, and Denver. This initiative is part of a larger European communication campaign, “Landmarks from Europe,” which seeks to elevate the visibility of PDO (Protected Designation of Origin) and DOCG (Controlled and Guaranteed Designation of Origin) products within U.S. and Canadian markets.

A Journey Through the Langhe Region

The series promises an enriching experience for participants, featuring seminars and tastings led by esteemed representatives from the Consorzio, renowned Master Sommeliers, and expert wine speakers. Attendees will delve deeply into the cultural and geographical aspects that define the Langhe region, the birthplace of Barolo and Barbaresco wines.

Discussions during these sessions will touch upon significant historical narratives, including the legacy of the famed Barolo Boys and the impact of global investors on local wine production. Participants will also explore the unique terroir and soil compositions that contribute to the distinct flavors of these wines. Essential concepts such as MGAs (Menzioni Geografiche Aggiuntive), along with data from recent harvest reports, will be central to the curriculum, enabling attendees to gain valuable insights into the production of these exceptional wines.

Scheduled Events and Hosts

The Academy Series promises to be a well-attended event, already seeing full registrations across all six cities:

• - Dallas - Monday, February 3, 2025, at 55 Seventy, hosted by Steven McDonald, MS (Wine Director at Pappas Bros Steakhouses)
• - Houston - Tuesday, February 4, 2025, at The Texas Wine School, also hosted by Steven McDonald, MS
• - Austin - Wednesday, February 5, 2025, at Jeffrey's, hosted by Austin Farina (Wine Director at Jeffrey's)
• - San Antonio - Thursday, February 6, 2025, at The Texas Wine School, hosted by Ali Schmidt (Wine Director at Emmer & Rye Hospitality Group)
• - Phoenix - Monday, February 10, 2025, at Wrigley Mansion, hosted by Jodi Bronchtein (Wine Director at Wrigley Mansion)
• - Denver - Tuesday, February 11, 2025, at Birch Road Clubhouse, hosted by Maddy Jimerson, MS (Wine Director at Casa Tua, Aspen)

Anticipation for the Barolo & Barbaresco World Opening

Following the completion of the Academy Series, excitement builds for the Barolo & Barbaresco World Opening, scheduled for March 25, 2025, at The Branch Park Pavilion in Austin, Texas. This event will serve as a grand platform for wine enthusiasts, industry players, and media representatives, featuring tastings of the latest Barolo and Barbaresco vintages, with over 160 renowned producers showcasing their 2021 and 2022 selections.

A Legacy of Quality

Founded in 1934, the Consorzio di Tutela Barolo Barbaresco Alba Langhe e Dogliani comprises over 600 wine producers dedicated to ensuring the quality and authenticity of the Langhe region's wine denominations. Through rigorous production guidelines, the Consortium maintains high standards across all stages of the winemaking process and continuously conducts market sampling to prevent fraud and safeguard the reputation of its wines. The Barolo and Barbaresco names are registered trademarks across numerous countries worldwide, symbolizing excellence in winemaking.

Join the Experience

With the Barolo & Barbaresco Academy Series poised to make a significant impact in the southwestern wine scene, it invites not only experts but also newcomers eager to deepen their understanding of Italian wines. This event promises to enhance appreciation for Barolo and Barbaresco, transforming how the Southwestern U.S. engages with these celebrated wine regions.