What kind of wine is Barbera d’Alba DOC 'Santo Stefano' 2022 - Castello di Neive

The Barbera d’Alba DOC 'Santo Stefano' 2022 - Castello di Neive originates from one of the estate's most prestigious vineyards, located on hills with ancient winemaking tradition in the heart of the Langhe. It is an expressive and generous red wine, embodying the soul of Piedmontese Barbera with balance and character. Produced with 100% Barbera grapes, it stands out for its lively fruity profile and enveloping structure, perfect for those seeking an authentic wine rich in personality.

Vintage details

The 2022 vintage was characterized by a warm and stable climate, with excellent diurnal temperature variation. This favored the complete ripening of the grapes, giving the Barbera d’Alba 'Santo Stefano' full aromatic concentration and good acidic freshness. The harvest, performed manually in the first days of October, allowed for a careful selection of the best bunches.

Winemaking and aging

The Barbera grapes are vinified in stainless steel tanks, where alcoholic fermentation takes place at controlled temperatures to preserve the fruity aromas. This is followed by a maceration of about 10 days on the skins, necessary to extract color and substance in a balanced way. Aging continues in large oak barrels for about 8 months, a choice that softens the tannins without masking the freshness and varietal character of the Barbera. The result is a harmonious, clean, and pleasantly drinkable wine.

Tasting notes

Color

In the glass, the Barbera d’Alba DOC 'Santo Stefano' 2022 - Castello di Neive displays an intense ruby red color with purplish reflections that emphasize its youth and vitality.

Nose

On the nose, it expresses a rich and frank bouquet, with notes of cherry, plum, and small ripe red fruits. This is followed by delicate spicy nuances and slight notes of sweet wood from the oak aging.

Taste

On the palate, it is full and harmonious: the typical acidity of Barbera is well balanced by a soft structure and fine tannins. The finish is long and pleasant, with fruity returns that immediately invite another sip.

What dishes to pair with Barbera d’Alba DOC 'Santo Stefano' 2022 - Castello di Neive

This wine pairs with great versatility with Italian cuisine. Perfect to accompany:

• savory first courses such as lasagna, tagliatelle with ragu, or mushroom risotto;
• white and red meats, from vitello tonnato to roast beef;
• medium-aged cheeses, such as Castelmagno or soft Bra.

Its freshness and balanced taste also make it ideal for an informal dinner with friends or for those who desire a red wine with character but pleasant drinkability.

Storage and aging

How to store Barbera d’Alba DOC 'Santo Stefano' 2022 - Castello di Neive wine? It is advisable to keep it in a cool, dry place away from direct light, preferably at a constant temperature between 12 and 15°C. The bottles should be laid horizontally so that the wine remains in contact with the cork and maintains its elasticity. The 'Santo Stefano' can be enjoyed immediately to appreciate its youthful exuberance, but it also has good aging potential: with 3-5 years of aging in the cellar, it develops greater aromatic complexity and roundness on the palate.