What kind of wine is Barbera del Monferrato Frizzante DOC “La Monella” 2023 Magnum - Braida di Giacomo Bologna (wooden box)

The Barbera del Monferrato Frizzante DOC “La Monella” 2023 Magnum - Braida di Giacomo Bologna is a lively and authentic red wine, a symbol of Monferrato's most genuine and convivial spirit. It is made from 100% Barbera grapes, a historic Piedmontese grape known for its natural acidity and ability to produce fresh and fragrant wines. In this "frizzante" (semi-sparkling) version, Barbera expresses its most genuine energy, offering a carefree yet characterful drink. The 1.5-liter Magnum format, encased in its elegant wooden box, also makes this wine perfect as a gift or for social occasions where sharing is key.

Vintage details

The 2023 vintage in Monferrato was characterized by a balanced climate, with a warm but not excessive summer and regular rainfall that favored uniform grape ripening. The Barbera grapes destined for “La Monella” were harvested at the end of September, at the perfect balance between sugars and acidity, ensuring full and fragrant fruit with intense aromas and a gustatory vitality that is found in the glass.

Winemaking and aging

The winemaking follows the typical philosophy of the Braida winery, based on precision and freshness. After a short maceration on the skins, fermentation takes place in temperature-controlled steel tanks to preserve the freshest aromas of the grape variety. The wine remains in steel for about 4 months, after which the secondary fermentation (prise de mousse) takes place in an autoclave, a method that allows for a fine and persistent effervescence. This is followed by about 2 months of aging in the bottle before release. The result is an immediate, fragrant, and irresistibly lively wine.

Tasting notes

Color

In the glass, it presents an intense ruby red with violet reflections, bright and lively, animated by a fine and cheerful perlage that invites tasting.

Nose

The bouquet is fresh and fruity, with hints of cherry, wild strawberry, blackberry, and a delicate floral note of violet. Slight spicy nuances then emerge, enriching the aromatic profile without overpowering it.

Taste

On the palate, “La Monella” is fresh, balanced, and pleasantly sparkling. The sip is agile yet persistent, with a pronounced acidity typical of Barbera that gives energy and cleanliness to the palate. The tannins are soft, almost silky, and the finish is juicy, with great harmony and pleasantness.

What dishes to pair with Barbera del Monferrato Frizzante DOC “La Monella” 2023 Magnum - Braida di Giacomo Bologna (wooden box)

This wine is a true table companion. Thanks to its light structure and the liveliness of its perlage, it pairs splendidly with traditional Piedmontese dishes and beyond. Ideal with:

• Typical cured meats and cold cuts, such as raw salami, coppa, and prosciutto;
• Rustic appetizers and savory pies;
• First courses with meat sauces or delicate ragù;
• Baked or grilled white meats;
• Medium-aged cheeses.

Also perfect with pizza or a barbecue with friends, where the freshness and effervescence of "La Monella" add a touch of joy and conviviality.

Storage and aging: how to store Barbera del Monferrato Frizzante DOC “La Monella” 2023 Magnum - Braida di Giacomo Bologna (wooden box)

To fully appreciate its exuberance and fruity character, it is advisable to enjoy "La Monella" within 2-3 years of the vintage. The wine should be stored horizontally, in a cool, dark place, at a constant temperature between 12 and 16°C, away from heat sources and vibrations. Although the Magnum format favors greater stability over time, "La Monella" is intended to be drunk young, when its sparkling liveliness and aromatic freshness are at their peak.