What kind of wine is Barbera d'Alba DOC Superiore 'Gallina' 2021 - La Spinetta

The Barbera d'Alba DOC Superiore 'Gallina' 2021 - La Spinetta is a Piedmontese red wine that combines intensity, elegance, and deep territorial identity. Produced with Barbera grapes from the renowned "Gallina" cru, located in the municipality of Neive (Cuneo), this wine perfectly reflects the connection between grape variety and terroir. The marly and calcareous soil, rich in light sands, and the ideal exposure of the vineyards contribute to giving the wine structure, freshness, and a pleasant drinkability.

Details of the vintage

The 2021 vintage was characterized by balanced climatic conditions, with a warm summer but without excesses and good temperature variations between day and night. These conditions allowed the grapes to mature uniformly, ensuring a perfect concentration of aromas and mature tannins. The result is a Barbera d'Alba DOC Superiore 'Gallina' 2021 rich in balance, where acidity and softness coexist harmoniously.

Winemaking and aging

Winemaking follows an approach that respects the raw material. The grapes are hand-harvested and subjected to fermentation in steel to preserve integrity and aromatic freshness. Subsequently, the wine undergoes malolactic fermentation – a natural process that transforms malic acid into lactic acid, making the wine softer – and an aging of 18 months in second and third-passage French oak barrels. The maturation is completed by an additional period of 12 months in the bottle, which rounds out its structure and amplifies its complexity.

Tasting Notes

Color

Visually, the Barbera d'Alba DOC Superiore 'Gallina' 2021 - La Spinetta presents itself with an intense ruby red color, embellished with slight violet reflections that reveal its youth and vibrancy.

Nose

The bouquet is broad and inviting: aromas of ripe cherry, blackberry, plum, and sweet spices stand out. Notes of vanilla and light tobacco, derived from the time in wood, blend with balsamic and mineral hints that give depth and refinement.

Palate

On the palate, it is full and harmonious. The sip, supported by a significant structure, shows silky tannins and a well-balanced freshness that enhances its drinkability. The persistence is long and pleasantly fruity, with a finish that recalls the spicy and fruity notes perceived on the nose.

Food Pairings for Barbera d'Alba DOC Superiore 'Gallina' 2021 - La Spinetta

This wine is suitable for numerous pairings thanks to its versatility and rich taste. It is ideal with Piedmontese cuisine and substantial preparations, such as:

• Tagliatelle with meat ragout or porcini mushrooms
• Braised and roasted beef
• Aged hard cheeses
• Grilled or stewed meats

It can also surprise alongside modern dishes, such as gourmet burgers or first courses with red wine reductions.

Storage and aging: how to store Barbera d'Alba DOC Superiore 'Gallina' 2021 - La Spinetta

To preserve the qualities of Barbera d'Alba DOC Superiore 'Gallina' 2021 - La Spinetta, it is advisable to store it in a cool, dark place with a constant temperature of around 14-16°C, away from sources of light or heat. The bottle should be kept lying down, so that the cork remains moist, preserving the seal and integrity of the wine. Thanks to its structure and long aging, this wine has excellent evolutionary potential: it can be left to rest in the cellar for 8-10 years, developing more complex and soft nuances over time, perfect for those who love to discover the evolution of great Piedmontese reds.