Grape Variety: 100% Barbera

Growing Region: Langhe, Piedmont, Italy

Chief Winemaker: Danilo Drocco

TASTING NOTE:
I visited Fontanafredda in 2007 and had the opportunity to walk around and over the hills where the vineyards are planted for this wine, and I have to say, they are picture postcard views all around the winery. This Barbera d'Alba is made from grapes grown in the Langhe area by wine growers who traditionally supply their production to Fontanafredda. The vineyards in Langhe are on mid and high hillside sites with good exposure to the sun and gentle evening breezes. The soil like most of the region has a high content of compact clayey-marl mixed with calcareous marl.

The fermentation for this wine took place in stainless steel tanks. The malolactic fermentation took place immediately after 7-8 days in contact with the skins at a temperature of 28-30 degrees. At the end of the wine-making process, the wine is transferred into wood (very large oak barrels) for ageing (around 12 months), after which it was bottled.

In the glass you have a deep ruby-red, tending to garnet around the edges. It has an intense bouquet, characteristically full of floral and red summer fruity notes. The palate is full and persistent and the mouth feel has a nice dry and velvety character to the finish.

CELLARING POTENTIAL:
Drinking well now and will repay time in the cellar for another 4-5 years.

SUGGESTED FOOD MATCHES:
Perfect wine accompaniment for all red meats, game and rich cheeses, enjoy.

One of the most approachable red wines you will enjoy this winter.