This wine carries the Superiore designation, which requires stricter production standards and extended ageing compared to standard Nebbiolo d'Alba. The additional complexity comes from 18 months of careful maturation, with at least 6 months in a blend of Austrian and French oak barrels. This elevated treatment results in greater depth, structure, and harmonious integration of flavours that you simply won't find in entry-level Nebbiolo wines.

The equal split between Austrian and French oak creates a more nuanced flavour profile than using just one type. French oak typically contributes elegant vanilla and spice notes with tighter grain structure, while Austrian oak tends to be more neutral with subtle fruit-forward characteristics. This dual-oak approach allows the delicate Nebbiolo fruit to shine while adding complexity without overwhelming the wine's natural pale colour and incisive character.

The savoury, spice, and strawberry notes make this wine incredibly food-friendly, particularly with Piedmontese cuisine like truffle dishes, braised meats, and aged cheeses. The medium body and 14-day skin fermentation create enough tannin structure to complement grilled lamb or duck, while the wine's natural acidity cuts through rich, creamy risottos. The spice elements also pair beautifully with mushroom-based dishes and charcuterie.

While this wine is approachable now thanks to its careful 18-month ageing process, Nebbiolo's natural structure and acidity give it excellent cellaring potential. The 2021 vintage should continue developing complexity for 8-12 years, with the oak integration becoming more seamless and the strawberry fruit evolving into more complex red and dried fruit characteristics. The controlled fermentation and quality oak treatment provide a solid foundation for graceful ageing.

A 4.0 Vivino rating places this wine in the 'very good' category, representing strong approval from everyday wine drinkers rather than just critics. This rating, combined with recognition as both an Italian import and boutique producer wine, suggests excellent value for money in the Nebbiolo category. The rating reflects the wine's accessibility despite Nebbiolo's reputation for being challenging, indicating that Cantina dei 5 Sogni has crafted a well-balanced expression that appeals to a broad range of palates.