What kind of wine is Barbera d'Alba DOC 'Vigneto Pugnane' 2022 - Marengo?

The Barbera d'Alba DOC 'Vigneto Pugnane' 2022 - Marengo is born in the heart of the Langhe, in Castiglione Falletto, from approximately fifteen-year-old Barbera vines cultivated in the esteemed Pugnane vineyard. This Barbera represents an authentic and refined expression of the denomination, capable of combining freshness, depth, and drinkability. It is a medium-bodied wine, structured yet balanced, whose distinctive features are its softness and vibrant acidity.

Vintage Details

The 2022 vintage was particularly favorable for Barbera: a stable and sunny climate allowed for complete maturation of the grapes, resulting in healthy, aromatic bunches. The harvest was done manually, at the right degree of ripeness, preserving the integrity of the fruit and ensuring a concentrated and fragrant aromatic base. The result is a harmonious wine, with a mature yet lively profile, and a natural balance between acidity and alcohol content.

Vinification and Aging

The grapes are destemmed and subjected to traditional fermentation in stainless steel, with a maceration of about ten days on the skins. This process allows for the extraction of color, tannins, and body, while preserving the freshness of the fruit. The wine then matures for ten months in non-new oak barriques, which impart roundness and a subtle spicy nuance without overpowering the natural varietal expression of Barbera.

Tasting Notes

The Barbera d'Alba DOC 'Vigneto Pugnane' 2022 - Marengo captivates with an intense and harmonious sensory profile, typical of the varietal but with a touch of elegance conferred by the wood.

Color

Visually, it presents a deep ruby red, with slight purplish reflections that attest to its youth and the chromatic richness typical of Barbera d’Alba.

Nose

The bouquet is broad and fragrant: aromas of ripe cherry, plum, and small red fruits dominate, enriched by subtle nuances of vanilla, cocoa, and sweet spices from the wood. The ensemble is refined and inviting, with a pleasant aromatic intensity.

Palate

On the palate, it stands out for its balanced structure: the sip is full and enveloping, with soft and smooth tannins. The acidity, characteristic of the varietal, gives momentum and freshness, while the persistence is long and consistent, with a finish that echoes the fruity and spicy notes perceived on the nose.

Food Pairings for Barbera d'Alba DOC 'Vigneto Pugnane' 2022 - Marengo

Versatile and highly drinkable, this wine lends itself to numerous pairings with Piedmontese and Italian cuisine in general. It is ideal with:

• pasta dishes with traditional ragu or meat sauces;
• grilled or roasted red meats;
• aged cheeses and flavorful cured meats;
• country-style dishes, such as braised meats, stews, or tajarin with sausage ragu.

It is a wine that is also appreciated with modern dishes, such as gourmet burgers or vegetarian baked lasagna.

Storage and Aging

If you're wondering how to store Barbera d'Alba DOC 'Vigneto Pugnane' 2022 - Marengo, the answer is simple: keep it in a cool, dark place with a constant temperature between 12 and 16°C, away from vibrations and direct light sources. It is a wine that, while offering its best in the early years, can further refine in the bottle for 4-6 years, developing more evolved and complex notes.

An excellent choice for those who want to bring an expressive wine to the table, capable of truthfully telling the story of the Langhe territory through its elegance and authenticity.