Barbera d’Asti Superiore Alfiera, Marchesi Alfieri

BARBERA D’ASTI SUPERIORE ALFIERA

D.O.C.G.

In the Vineyard

Cluster thinning in the first half of August at the onset of ripening. Yield per vine 1.2 – 1.4 Kg (2.6 – 3.1 lbs) Grapes are hand-harvested in crates in the second half of September

In the Cellar

Selection and inspection of the grapes occurs on the sorting table followed by gentle destemming and crushing. Fermentation of the skins takes place in stainless steel tanks at a temperature of 28°-30° (82°F-86°F) for 12-15 days using delestage (rack and return) and a light pumping over

Ageing

Malolactic fermentation occurs in stainless steel followed by a pouring off into respective 225 and 500 litre (59 and 118 gallons) 2-3year old French oak barriques (Allier and Troncais) for about 1 year. Consequentially, further aging occurs in the bottle for 3 – 6 months at a controlled temperature of 15° C (59°F). before release

Production

60,000 bottles

Sensory properties

Deep ruby red colour with purple highlights. Intense, wine aroma with notes of ripe plum and light vanilla from the oak barrels. Full, dense, smooth flavour with balanced notes of spice, vanilla from the wood, and red fruit. Develops well for 5 – 6 years in the bottle

Food pairing

This is a wine that goes well with numerous dishes: pasta, red and white meats, medium matured non-blue cheeses

Serving Temperature

18°C (64°F)