Pre-Phylloxera Barbera d’Alba DOC – 2014
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Introduction
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This selection of Barbera is called “Pre-Phylloxera” because it is the only Barbera d’Alba DOC produced from ungrafted vines of Barbera. The wine is a unique and exclusive product — to taste this wine is to discover the original characteristics of the indigenous Barbera grape. The vineyard was planted more than 120 years ago, before the arrival of Phylloxera in Langhe, and has survived due to the sandy soil in this location, which Phylloxera, a root-feeding aphid, cannot abide. The vines come from pre-grafted plants and are propagated by cuttings.
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Vineyard Profile
- Vineyards: 100% estate
- Location: In Località Berri, in the village of La Morra
- Cultivation: 100% organic (not yet certified)
- Size: 0.25 hectare (0.62 acre)
- Vine Age: 120-plus years
- Soil: Very rich in sand, which is a natural protection from Phylloxera attacks
- Elevation: 520 meters (1,706 feet) above sea level
- Exposure: Southern
- Density: 4,500 vines/acre (1,821 vines/acre)
- Training: Vertical trellising, Guyot pruning
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Vintage Report
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The 2014 vintage started with a temperate winter, a prelude to a year characterized by above-average temperatures. The frequency and intensity of rainfall (as opposed to amount) particularly marked this vintage. Because of this, very delicate measures were taken in caring for the vines, and harvest began a bit earlier than average.
- Harvest Date(s): October 1
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Vinification
- Fermentation: 100% in stainless-steel fermentors with 9-12 days skin contact, temperature controlled, automatic pump-overs; 100% with indigenous yeast
- Malolactic: 100% in steel fermenters
- Barrel Aging: 1 year barrel-aging in used, 25-hl (660-gallon) Slavonian oak
- Filtration: None
- Bottle Aging: 6 months
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Technical Information
- Varietal Composition: 100% Barbera
- Production (in cases): 330 (6/750ml)
- Cases Imported: 150
- Alcohol: 14%
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Tasting Notes
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This Barbera immediately shows an intense ruby red color with deep purple hues, and it is rich with a variety of fruity and floral aromas: Morellino cherry, black berry, peach, red currant, and violet. The first impression is extremely delicate before it envelops the palate. Exceptional balance between silky tannins and acidity. Every sip is a pleasure.
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Images
Reviews
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Pre-Phylloxera Barbera d’Alba DOC – 2014
This Barbera shows an intense ruby red color with deep purple hues, and it is rich with a variety of fruity and floral aromas: Morellino cherry, black berry, peach, red currant, and violet. Exceptional balance between silky tannins and acidity.
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Pre-Phylloxera Barbera d’Alba DOC – 2014 – 91 points – Wine & Spirits
“… impressive density … flavors of black cherry and wild berries, with accents of leafy tobacco and aniseed lending herbal and spice notes.”
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Pre-Phylloxera Barbera d’Alba DOC – 2014 – 90 points – Wine Spectator
"Bracing acidity carries the cherry, blackberry and spice flavors to a long conclusion in this concentrated red. A mineral element emerges on the aftertaste."