What kind of wine is Barbera d'Asti Superiore DOCG 'Litina' 2016 - Cascina Castlèt

Barbera d'Asti Superiore DOCG 'Litina' 2016 - Cascina Castlèt is a Piedmontese red wine of great character, an authentic expression of the Asti territory and its iconic grape variety: Barbera. Produced by Cascina Castlèt in Costigliole d'Asti, a historic name in the enhancement of the grape variety, this wine combines tradition and contemporary taste, offering a pleasant yet structured drink, ideal for those seeking an elegant and charming red wine.

Vintage Details

The 2016 vintage is considered one of the best for Barbera d'Asti. The ripening was slow and regular, with a perfect balance between sugars, acidity, and aromas. This allowed for a particularly harmonious wine, with good aromatic concentration and a lively freshness that provides longevity and pleasantness over time.

Vinification and aging

Barbera d'Asti Superiore DOCG 'Litina' 2016 - Cascina Castlèt is made from selected grapes, hand-picked from the most suitable hillside vineyards. Fermentation takes place in stainless steel at controlled temperatures to preserve the fruit's fragrance. This is followed by aging in wood, generally in oak barrels, where the wine matures for about a year, developing complexity and roundness on the palate. A further period in the bottle completes the process, giving it balance and aromatic depth.

Tasting Notes

Color

Visually, it presents an intense ruby red color, with slight garnet hues that attest to its maturity. The brilliance of the color foreshadows a refined and lively wine.

Nose

On the nose, it releases rich and inviting aromas of ripe red fruit – cherry, blackberry, and plum – accompanied by sweet spicy notes and a slight hint of vanilla and cocoa, derived from its time in wood. The bouquet is broad and well-balanced, never overly pronounced.

Taste

On the palate, it is full and soft, supported by a typical Barbera freshness that balances the structure and alcohol content. The tannins are fine and integrated, while the finish is long, elegant, and slightly spicy. It is a wine that combines intensity and harmony, making every sip satisfying.

Food Pairings for Barbera d'Asti Superiore DOCG 'Litina' 2016 - Cascina Castlèt

This wine lends itself to many pairings, thanks to its balance between body and freshness. It is perfect for accompanying Piedmontese cuisine, but it also enhances dishes from the broader Italian tradition. Recommended pairings include:

• Savory pasta dishes such as tagliatelle with ragù or agnolotti del plin;
• Grilled or braised red meats;
• Aged and medium-aged cheeses;
• Typical cured meats and rustic dishes with mushrooms or polenta.

Thanks to its versatility, Barbera d'Asti Superiore DOCG 'Litina' 2016 - Cascina Castlèt is also an ideal choice for a dinner with friends, capable of pleasing diverse palates.

Storage and aging: how to store Barbera d'Asti Superiore DOCG 'Litina' 2016 - Cascina Castlèt wine

The “Litina” 2016 is already ready to drink but has interesting aging potential. If stored correctly, it can improve further over the years. Here are some practical tips on how to store Barbera d'Asti Superiore DOCG 'Litina' 2016 - Cascina Castlèt wine:

• Store it in a cool place, with a constant temperature between 12 and 16°C;
• Keep the bottle horizontally to keep the cork moist;
• Avoid direct light and vibrations;
• Serve at an ideal temperature of 16-18°C to best appreciate its aromas.

With proper rest in the cellar, this Barbera d'Asti can surprise with an even more refined aromatic complexity, demonstrating how a traditional wine can continue to tell its story over time.