What kind of wine is Barbera d’Alba Superiore DOC 2021 - Castello di Neive?

Barbera d’Alba Superiore DOC 2021 - Castello di Neive is a Piedmontese red wine that embodies the authentic character of the hills of Neive, one of the most renowned villages in the Langhe. Made from 100% Barbera grapes, this wine stands out for its harmonious structure, the typical freshness of the varietal, and its aromatic complexity, making it an elegant and highly distinctive red. Produced only in the best vintages, the “Superiore” version represents the most mature expression of Barbera according to the interpretation of the historic Castello di Neive winery.

Vintage Details

The 2021 vintage was characterized by balanced climatic conditions in the Langhe, with warm and breezy days and cool nights during the ripening period. These conditions allowed the grapes to reach optimal ripeness, enhancing aromatic concentration and ensuring a perfect balance between acidity and softness. The result is a Barbera d’Alba Superiore with an intense yet balanced profile, refined in structure, and rich in nuances.

Winemaking and Aging

After a careful selection of the grape bunches, fermentation takes place in steel tanks at controlled temperatures, ensuring a maceration on the skins for about 10-12 days to extract color and aromas. This is followed by aging for at least 12 months in French oak barriques, which softens the tannins and adds elegant spicy and vanilla notes. The wine then completes its evolution with a period of rest in the bottle before release, to achieve its ideal gustatory harmony.

Tasting Notes

Color

In the glass, the Barbera d’Alba Superiore DOC 2021 - Castello di Neive displays an intense ruby red color with garnet reflections, a sign of its good evolution. The brightness and density of the color anticipate a full and decisive structure.

Nose

On the nose, it opens with notes of ripe red fruit – cherry, plum, and blackberry – followed by spicy hints of vanilla, licorice, and a light toastiness derived from the wood. A rich and inviting bouquet that evolves in the glass, revealing nuances of violet and delicate balsamic sensations.

Palate

On the palate, it is rich, soft, and well-balanced. The acidity, typical of the Barbera grape, provides freshness and vibrancy, while the tannins are fine and perfectly integrated. The finish is persistent, with fruity and spicy returns that underscore the elegance and quality of the aging process.

Food Pairings for Barbera d’Alba Superiore DOC 2021 - Castello di Neive

This Piedmontese red wine pairs splendidly with traditional dishes and flavorful preparations. Here are some recommended pairings:

• Rich first courses such as tagliatelle with ragu or baked lasagna
• Grilled red meats or braised dishes
• Aged cheeses and long-aged cured meats
• Typical Piedmontese dishes such as bollito misto (mixed boiled meats) or tajarin with meat sauce

A versatile wine, also ideal for accompanying social gatherings and important dinners.

Storage and Aging: How to store Barbera d’Alba Superiore DOC 2021 - Castello di Neive

To fully appreciate the characteristics of this wine, it is important to store it correctly. The Barbera d’Alba Superiore DOC 2021 - Castello di Neive should be kept in a cool environment, with a constant temperature between 12 and 16°C, away from direct light sources and vibrations. The bottle should remain lying down so that the cork stays moist and ensures a perfect seal. Thanks to its structure and long aging, this wine can evolve positively for 6-8 years, developing even more complex aromas and an increasingly harmonious taste.