Barale Fratelli, Barbaresco, Serra Boella, 2004

Grape Varietal(s): Nebbiolo

Vineyard Size: 2.2 acres

Annual Production: 300 cases

Single Vineyard Name: n/a

Appellation: Barbaresco DOCG

Region: Piedmont

Country: Italy

Topography: Hillside

Harvest: Mid-October

Alcohol Content: 14% volume

Vinification:

The grapes are handpicked in Mid-October. Traditional submerged head fermentation followed by 2 year aging in oak casks. This Barbaresco undergoes no clarification or filtration and no type of chemical or physical stabilizing process.

Tasting Notes:

Wonderful “old world” style Barbaresco. Fratelli Barale crafts a classic wine that steps back and lets the terroir of Serra Boella’s sunny slopes express itself. Prairie rose, spiced honey, austere fruit in the nose preview the wine’s perfect balance and transports the mouth on a lengthy, well-structured taste trip. Showing beautifully now; will cellar for years. The gripping tannins offer an exciting array of food matches. Particularly nice with marbled meats that allow the wine’s structure to penetrate: braised lamb; grilled duck breast; venison ribs; sirloin tips. Other righteous food matches include brussels sprouts with porcini mushrooms; mushroom risotto; lentils and chopped beets; baked cod and turnips; alongside a chunk of parmigiano reggiano and bread.