Paitin, Langhe Nebbiolo (Piedmont, Italy) 2019

 This weekday-drinker is perfect when your evening meal needs a Nebbiolo pairing.  Grown in Paitin’s lower elevation vineyards, this Langhe is lighter and less complex than Paitin’s Barbaresco offerings, but also sells for a third of their general price.  Sour cherry, cranberry, and earthy potting soil and crushed rocks are present — all traditional Nebbiolo characteristics — but the winner for me is the subtle white pepper note that peeks through on the finish.  If Paitin’s Starda is on your by-the-glass list, I’m drinking it.