Ca' del Baio 2020 Barbaresco Autinbej DOCG

This wine is made from the grapes of several crus of the winery. Grandfather Ernesto called them "autin bej" in Piedmontese: the most beautiful and sunniest vineyards or just plots on vineyards. That's why this Barbaresco is, so to speak, a homage to Ernesto.

This is a Barbaresco as it used to be made. The berries of particularly suitable and in this case high-altitude vineyards were combined to bring together the best characteristics of Nebbiolo in a single Barbaresco wine. The first vintage produced by the Grasso family was 2014. A major challenge in what was generally considered a difficult year. But compared to Piedmont and the rest of Italy, in 2014 the Barbaresco area was a special enclave with a very favorable climatic situation.

The grapes for the Barbaresco Autinbel are harvested by hand in October, then destemmed and gently pressed.  Fermentation then takes place in temperature-controlled stainless steel tanks and lasts up to 15 days. This is followed by a 24-month expansion in large Slovenian oak barrels. Finally, the wine ages in the bottle for a further 4 months before going on sale.

This Barbaresco Autinbej has an intense, fruity bouquet reminiscent of raspberries, jam and violets. The ethereal sensations are accompanied by sweet spicy notes and hints of cocoa; the taste is warm, long, persistent and slightly tannic. The aftertaste brings back the fruity notes. An excellent Barbaresco with a good price/quality ratio.

A good accompaniment to poultry, lamb, veal, risotto and aged cheeses. Ready to drink immediately and for the next 8 years.