Barbera d'Alba Superiore La Lisi

Vineyard and terroir

The Barbera grows in recently planted vineyards in the Visette area of Monforte d'Alba. The vines stand at 350–400 metres above sea level on north- and northwest-facing slopes.

Vinification

The grapes are harvested by hand and gently pressed at the winery. To preserve freshness and bring out brighter aromas, the wine undergoes 36 hours of cold maceration, followed by a further 5 days of maceration at a controlled temperature. Fermentation relies entirely on natural yeasts.

Ageing

The wine ages for 12 months in small oak barrels. It then spends several more months maturing in bottle in the winery's cellars at a controlled 15 °C before release.

Tasting profile

Fresh and lively.

Vintage notes

2020: The winter in Piedmont was mild, with moderate temperatures and little rainfall. The first part of spring was relatively dry and sunny, which suggested an early harvest. That outlook changed in May, when heavy rains began and lasted until the end of June. They slowed the vines' growth and let the soil build up substantial water reserves. A sharp drop in temperature at the beginning of September temporarily slowed the ripening of the Barbera, which then accelerated rapidly again in the second half of the month. The Barbera showed excellent sugar and acidity levels.