Ugo Lequio - Barbaresco Gallina DOCG 2017

Aromas of ripe cherry, rose, licorice, pepper, and leather. Elegant and refined on the palate, with a firm structure, fresh acidity, and silky tannins. A classic Barbaresco with length and a spicy, earthy finish.

A wonderful partner for tajarin al ragù, porcini mushroom risotto, and roasted game. Also delicious with braised beef and aged cheeses. Serve at 18 °C.

Ugo Lequio is a story unto himself. In 1981, he started his own small, almost ‘garage’-style winery without owning a single vine. Born and raised in Neive as the youngest son of a winemaking family, he knew the area and the best vineyards like no other. His winery is located right next to the famous Gallina hill, home to the historic Cascina Nuova, now owned by the Marcarino family.

Since the family vineyards did not belong to him, Ugo chose a different path: he set out to find the best grapes. He started with Barbera from the Marcarino family and built a relationship of trust with them over the years. Eventually, he managed to convince them to sell him a portion of their precious Nebbiolo as well. These grapes previously went to the legendary winemaker Bruno Giacosa.

Ugo does almost everything himself and personally supervises vineyard management. His grape selection is extremely meticulous and his winemaking is decidedly traditional. Furthermore, he deliberately gives his wines more time than the regulations require. Aging takes place in large wooden botti, followed by further rest in his cellar in Neive.

This combination of patience, precision, and craftsmanship yields wines with depth, structure, and a distinct character of their own. Ugo is a true artisan who prioritizes quality over production and only releases his wines when he feels they are ready.

Kerin O’Keefe of Wine Enthusiast described his Arneis as “a fantastic expression of Arneis” from one of the best, yet still remarkably little-known, producers in the Langhe.

Sourced from Gallina in Neive, a historic top MGA with a southern exposure and old Nebbiolo vines. The vineyard is known for wines that combine elegance with structure.

Traditionally vinified in stainless steel tanks with 15–18 days of maceration. The wine is then aged for 20 months in large 25 hl Slavonian oak barrels, followed by 6 months of bottle aging.

The 2017 has now developed lovely bottle age, combining ripe fruit, fresh acidity, and refined tannins. Excellent to drink now, but has potential for further development. Can be cellared until approximately 2028-2034.