Fratelli Ponte
Vibrant dark fruit flavors with balanced acidity and a lingering oak finish.
Barbera d'Asti Superiore DOCG is one of Piedmont's most prestigious appellations, and Fratelli Ponte's interpretation showcases the best qualities of this classic Italian wine. This 2020 vintage demonstrates the remarkable character of Barbera grapes when crafted with expertise and respect for tradition.
Winemaking
The Barbera grapes for this Superiore DOCG undergo careful selection and harvesting at optimal ripeness. The wine is aged according to DOCG regulations, which require a minimum of 14 months, with at least six months in oak barrels. This aging process contributes to the wine's complexity and earned "Superiore" designation.
Taste Profile
A classic Barbera d'Asti Superiore presenting with:
- Appearance: Deep ruby red with purple highlights
- Nose: Rich aromas of ripe dark fruits, particularly black cherry and plum, with subtle hints of vanilla and spice from oak aging
- Palate: Full-bodied with characteristic high acidity, showing flavors of dark berries, subtle oak influence, and a long, satisfying finish
- Structure: Well-balanced tannins complemented by the variety's natural acidity
Territory
This wine comes from the Asti province in Piedmont, Italy. The region's unique terroir features calcareous-clay soils and a continental climate with significant day-night temperature variations, ideal conditions for Barbera grape cultivation. The hills of Asti provide excellent exposure and drainage, contributing to the grapes' quality and the wine's distinctive character.
Fun Facts
- Barbera was historically considered a "people's wine" in Piedmont but has gained prestigious status through careful winemaking and the establishment of the DOCG classification
- The Superiore designation requires higher minimum alcohol content and longer aging compared to regular Barbera d'Asti
- While Barolo and Barbaresco often get more international attention, Barbera d'Asti is the everyday choice of many Piedmontese wine lovers