What kind of wine is Barbera d'Asti Superiore DOCG 'Villa Pattono' 2023 - Renato Ratti?

Barbera d'Asti Superiore DOCG 'Villa Pattono' 2023 - Renato Ratti is a Piedmontese red wine that elegantly and distinctively represents the winemaking tradition of Monferrato. Primarily made from Barbera grapes, with small percentages of Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot, it is a full-bodied and harmonious wine, where the freshness of the main grape blends with the structure and softness of the international grapes. Perfect for those who love intense yet balanced reds, it is a symbol of Renato Ratti winery's winemaking mastery.

Vintage Details

The 2023 vintage is distinguished by a balanced climate, characterized by a regular spring and a hot summer with good diurnal temperature variations. These conditions allowed for optimal grape ripening, resulting in a wine with an intense aromatic profile and a good balance between acidity and structure. The harvest took place between late September and mid-October, an ideal period to achieve the full expression of the grape variety.

Winemaking and Aging

The winemaking of Barbera d'Asti Superiore DOCG 'Villa Pattono' 2023 - Renato Ratti follows a controlled process that respects the raw material. The grapes are fermented in stainless steel at a controlled temperature (around 30 °C), to preserve the fruit's freshness and promote the extraction of typical color and aromas. This is followed by several days of maceration on the skins, which contributes to complexity and tannin softness. Aging takes place in French oak barriques for about 12 months, some of which are already used, to enrich the wine with spicy notes without overpowering its natural elegance.

Tasting Notes

Color

In the glass, it presents a deep ruby red, with vibrant violet reflections, a sign of youth and vitality.

Nose

The bouquet is broad and refined: aromas of ripe cherry, plum, and small red berries emerge, accompanied by nuances of vanilla, sweet tobacco, and spices, inherited from the wood aging. The overall impression is balanced and enveloping.

Palate

On the palate, it offers a full and velvety sip, supported by a pleasant freshness typical of Barbera. The tannins are soft and well-integrated, while the structure is broad yet harmonious. The finish is long and clean, with pleasant fruity and spicy returns that invite another taste.

Food Pairings for Barbera d'Asti Superiore DOCG 'Villa Pattono' 2023 - Renato Ratti

This wine pairs splendidly with Piedmontese cuisine and flavorful dishes. Ideal with:

• grilled or braised red meats;
• aged and moderately spicy cheeses;
• structured pasta dishes, such as tagliatelle with ragu or mushroom risotto;
• autumn dishes based on game or truffles.

Thanks to its elegance and softness, it is also perfect to enjoy on its own, during a relaxing moment or a convivial dinner.

Storage and Aging: How to store Barbera d'Asti Superiore DOCG 'Villa Pattono' 2023 - Renato Ratti wine

To preserve the qualities of this wine, it is advisable to store it in a cool, dry place away from direct light. The ideal storage temperature is around 12-16 °C, with the bottle preferably laid horizontally to keep the cork in contact with the wine. Barbera d'Asti Superiore 'Villa Pattono' 2023 has excellent aging potential: it can age in the bottle for 6-8 years, developing refined tertiary notes and greater harmony of taste over time. Uncorked at the right moment, it offers a complete sensory experience, capable of expressing all the character of the territory and the expert hand of Renato Ratti.