Barbera d’Alba DOC Scarrone Vigna Vecchia 2021

Wine Description for Barbera d’Alba DOC Scarrone Vigna Vecchia 2021 by Vietti

Colour & Appearance

Deep, muted violet-red, colour-dense right to the rim of the glass – a wine that knows no ambiguity.

Nose

The nose exudes youthful energy: red and blue fruits – cherry, blackberry, blueberry – combine with wild herbs, a hint of cedarwood and seductive notes of marzipan and nougat. Floral accents of violet and rose lend the whole elegance and depth. A wine that is simultaneously fiery and refined – and which needs time to fully unfold.

Palate

On the palate, an impressive density unfolds: juicy fruit and perceptible fruit sweetness are carried by the characteristic, invigorating acidity of Barbera and culminate in a long-lasting mineral-saline texture. The tannins are ripe, yet still display the lively brittleness of youth. At 15.5% alcohol, surprisingly supple and balanced – the label doesn’t lie.

Finish

Long, warm and complex. Fruity depth meets mineral precision. This wine demands a second glass – and a third.

Terroir & Origin

The grapes come from the steep, terraced single vineyard site Scarrone in Castiglione Falletto – a location also renowned for great Barolo. The east-north-east facing slopes over calcareous marl soil lend the wine its mineral contour and structural tension.

Grape Variety & Vinification

Pure Barbera from vines, some of which date back to the year 1918 – ancient specimens that know no compromise in yield and concentration. Hand-harvested, cold maceration, spontaneous fermentation in open steel tanks, malolactic fermentation. Maturation over 18 months predominantly in barriques of French oak (approximately 25% new), supplemented by large wooden casks. Neither fined nor filtered – a wine with integrity.

Food Pairing Recommendations

Definitely decant and serve lightly chilled. Ideal with Osso Buco with roasted vegetables and rosemary potatoes, Pappardelle with sausage and red wine ragout or – surprisingly elegant – with a risotto with chanterelles and blackberries.

Special Features

A Barbera that far exceeds its regional promise. The over 100-year-old vines of the Vigna Vecchia deliver a concentration and complexity reminiscent of the great Nebbiolo wines of Piedmont. Drinking well now – yet those with patience will be rewarded in five to eight years.