Principiano Giuseppe & Francesco - Barbera d'Alba Superiore DOC 2022

Deep ruby red. Aromas of cherry, blackberry, and plum, complemented by earthy and spicy notes. Full-bodied and juicy, with a soft texture, lively acidity, and a long, pleasant finish with a hint of liquorice.

Excellent with meat pasta dishes, spicy meals, and aged cheeses. Thanks to its fresh acidity, it also pairs well with piquant dishes. Serve at 17 °C.

Dangling at the southern edge of the Barolo appellation lies the four-generation-old winery Principiano. A still relatively unknown gem, but a producer with a clear, distinct style and great potential. Giuseppe and his son Francesco run the estate with passion and a love for their craft. Furthermore, they much prefer having their boots in the vineyard to standing at a wine fair to promote their wines.

They own approximately 8 hectares of vineyards within the municipalities of Monforte d’Alba and Serralunga d’Alba. Part of the grapes are bottled under their own label, while another part is sold as sfuso – bulk wine.

The working method is traditional. The wines mature in large 25 hl Slavonian oak botti, keeping the character of the grape and the terroir central. The range is broad, but the style is recognizable: pure, precise, and robust wines with structure and backbone.

These are the wineries we love. Rolling up their sleeves, working in the vineyard, and simply making great wine. No need for outward display, but proud of a quality product. That is what we love. Chapeau.

The grapes come from the hills of Monforte d’Alba and Serralunga d’Alba, at an altitude of 300–400 meters. The lime- and clay-rich soils and varied exposures provide ripe fruit, freshness, and structure.

The grapes are hand-harvested and fermented in steel tanks, with 9–12 days of skin maceration. The wine is then aged for approximately 18 months, 12 months of which in tonneaux and 6 months in steel, followed by bottle aging.

A robust Barbera d’Alba Superiore with sufficient structure for bottle aging. Already drinking beautifully now, but will keep well for approximately 5–7 years after the harvest.