La Spinetta Barbera d'Alba Gallina 2023

This Barbera d'Alba comes from the Gallina cru, in Neive, at the heart of the Piedmontese Langhe. The vines are planted there between 250 and 300 metres above sea level, on calcareous marls and fine clays particularly favourable to the expression of Barbera. This terroir, one of the most renowned in the commune, gives the grape variety intensity of fruit, depth and a silky texture, while preserving the natural freshness that characterises it.

Following a rigorous plot-by-plot approach, the Barbera is grown at low yields to reach optimal ripeness and consistent balance. The 2023 vintage, marked by a wet spring and then a hot summer, allowed gradual ripening. The wine is aged for twelve months in French oak barriques, an ageing that brings complexity and structure without masking the identity of the terroir.

This wine reveals notes of black cherry, raspberry, redcurrant, blackberry, violet, cinnamon, vanilla and liquorice. The expressive, precise nose is supported by discreet oak. On the palate, the wine stands out for its marked energy, carried by lively acidity that structures a fluid, dynamic texture. The fine, well-integrated tannins frame vibrant fruit, before a fresh, persistent and slightly saline finish.

Ah, Italy, what a beautiful, hedonistic country, the land of la dolce vita, but how difficult it is to understand its wine industry! The key to understanding the appellation system in Italy is to think of it as several small countries rather than a single homogeneous nation, as each region has its own appellation system. Italy can offer wine lovers a multitude of wines with varied and unique flavors and styles, bottles brimming with surprise and creativity. Unfortunately, it also produces a large quantity of soulless, characterless wines sold under their most commercially useful and prestigious name: Pinot Grigio, Chianti, Valpolicella, Lambrusco, Prosecco, and many others... But let's talk a little history. Viticulture in Italy dates back to antiquity and originated in Greece. The Etruscans are said to have introduced the vine, and Greek immigrants improved and modified the grape varieties, subsequently calling the country "Oenotria": the land of wine. At the height of the Roman Empire, wine held an important place in daily life, and certain regions already distinguished themselves by the excellence of their product. The Romans also established numerous vineyards in Europe, leaving an indelible mark of their conquest. Today, Italy is the world's largest wine producer, ahead of France. Italy is divided into three climatic zones. The northern mountains have a rather harsh mountain climate. The plains of the "central boot" are characterized by a continental climate with cold winters and hot, stormy summers. In the southern part of the Italian boot, the Mediterranean climate prevails, with very hot and dry summers, not forgetting the islands of Sicily and Sardinia. In short, Italy produces a wide variety of wines thanks to its 200 different grape varieties, many of which originated in its own lands. It is a country as complex as its wines, which deserve to be explored!