{"title":"Braida di Giacomo Bologna","description":"","products":[{"product_id":"il-fiore-monferrato-bianco-doc-2024","title":"\"Il Fiore\" Monferrato Bianco DOC 2024","description":"\u003ch4\u003eVineyard and winemaking\u003c\/h4\u003e\u003cp\u003eIl Fiore combines Chardonnay with Nascetta, a semi-aromatic native Piedmontese variety, from vineyards in the Langhe hills. Chardonnay provides orchard fruit and breadth, while Nascetta contributes floral lift, herbal detail and the fresh line that gives the blend its easy poise.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eThe two grapes are vinified separately in stainless-steel tanks before blending. With no oak influence, the 2024 remains focused on clean fruit, fragrance and mineral freshness, making it an expressive white for early drinking.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003ch4\u003eTasting notes\u003c\/h4\u003e\u003ch5\u003eAppearance\u003c\/h5\u003e\u003cp\u003ePale straw yellow with bright green-gold reflections.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003ch5\u003eNose\u003c\/h5\u003e\u003cp\u003eWhite peach, pear and lemon blossom are lifted by sage, fennel frond and a delicate note of white pepper.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003ch5\u003ePalate\u003c\/h5\u003e\u003cp\u003eFresh and flowing, with citrus and stone fruit set against crisp acidity and a lightly saline edge. Chardonnay lends a gentle roundness through the middle, while Nascetta brings aromatic definition and a clean, herb-flecked finish.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003ch4\u003eFood pairing\u003c\/h4\u003e\u003cp\u003eServe with crab and lemon linguine, grilled sea bass, courgette and goat's cheese tart, or asparagus risotto. Chill to around 9–10°C, allowing it to warm slightly in the glass so the floral and herbal notes can emerge.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003ch4\u003eBackground story\u003c\/h4\u003e\u003cp\u003eIl Fiore—“The Flower”—captures Braida's habit of combining international experience with Piedmontese roots. The playing-card-inspired identity suggests different suits brought together, while the blend itself gives the region's revived Nascetta grape a graceful partnership with Chardonnay.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eBy developing its white-wine work alongside the Barberas for which it is renowned, the Bologna family has continued to explore the breadth of Piedmont. Sommelier's Choice has collaborated with Braida for more than twenty years and values this same balance of curiosity, precision and regional character.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Braida di Giacomo Bologna","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":7848989589564,"sku":"GBILFIORE24","price":25.35,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0036\/1984\/8252\/files\/braida-di-giacomo-bologna-il-fiore-2024-0-standardised-600x960.png?v=1791377108"},{"product_id":"re-di-fiori-riesling-langhe-doc-2019","title":"\"Re Di Fiori\" Riesling Langhe DOC 2019","description":"\u003ch4\u003eVineyard and winemaking\u003c\/h4\u003e\u003cp\u003eRe di Fiori is made from 100% Rhine Riesling at Tenuta Serra dei Fiori in Trezzo Tinella. The vineyard's south-easterly exposure and elevated Langhe setting favour slow, even ripening, while soils formed from ancient marine deposits contribute the mineral definition that develops as the wine ages.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eHand-picked, selected grapes are softly pressed before the must settles and ferments in temperature-controlled stainless steel. The wine remains in tank until bottling and then rests for at least six months in bottle, preserving purity while giving the acidity time to settle into the fruit.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003ch4\u003eTasting notes\u003c\/h4\u003e\u003ch5\u003eAppearance\u003c\/h5\u003e\u003cp\u003eClear straw-gold with subtle green reflections and the first signs of maturity.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003ch5\u003eNose\u003c\/h5\u003e\u003cp\u003eLime peel, green apple and white peach are joined by wet stone, dried chamomile and a restrained hint of beeswax.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003ch5\u003ePalate\u003c\/h5\u003e\u003cp\u003eDry and precise, with brisk citrus acidity running through orchard fruit and a stony, lightly spicy centre. Bottle age has added texture and savoury nuance without diminishing the wine's energy, and the finish is long, clean and mineral.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003ch4\u003eFood pairing\u003c\/h4\u003e\u003cp\u003eTry with smoked haddock fishcakes, roast pork with apple, Thai green vegetable curry, or trout with almonds. Serve at around 10°C; the wine's acidity handles gentle spice well, while its mature detail rewards less forceful seasoning.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003ch4\u003eBackground story\u003c\/h4\u003e\u003cp\u003eRe di Fiori means “King of Flowers”, a name that reflects both Riesling's aromatic distinction and its place within the playing-card-inspired Serra dei Fiori range. The estate gives the Bologna family a cooler, hillier setting in which to explore white grapes alongside their historic Barberas.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eBraida's decision to cultivate Rhine Riesling shows the curiosity that has long shaped the family's work. Sommelier's Choice has collaborated with the Bolognas for more than twenty years, valuing their willingness to pair Piedmontese identity with thoughtful experimentation.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Braida di Giacomo Bologna","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":7848989851708,"sku":"GBREFIORI19","price":26.6,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0036\/1984\/8252\/files\/braida-di-giacomo-bologna-re-di-fiori-langhe-riesling-doc-2019-0-standardised-600x960.png?v=1791377116"},{"product_id":"il-baciale-monferrato-rosso-doc-2017","title":"\"Il Bacialé\" Monferrato Rosso DOC 2017","description":"\u003ch4\u003eVineyard and winemaking\u003c\/h4\u003e\u003cp\u003eIl Bacialé is a Monferrato blend led by Barbera and supported by Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon and Cabernet Franc. Fruit from the family's vineyards in Castelnuovo Calcea, San Marzano Oliveto and Rocchetta Tanaro combines Barbera's freshness with the structure and darker flavour of the French varieties.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eEach component is vinified separately so that its character can be retained. Barbera develops in large Slavonian oak, while the French grapes mature in smaller French barriques; after blending, the wine rests again in large casks, giving the 2017 a rounded, integrated profile.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003ch4\u003eTasting notes\u003c\/h4\u003e\u003ch5\u003eAppearance\u003c\/h5\u003e\u003cp\u003eDeep ruby-garnet with a clear, gently evolved edge.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003ch5\u003eNose\u003c\/h5\u003e\u003cp\u003eBlack cherry, cassis and ripe plum are joined by violet, cracked pepper, cedar and a light note of roasted walnut.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003ch5\u003ePalate\u003c\/h5\u003e\u003cp\u003eGenerous and supple, with juicy dark fruit, ripe tannins and a bright line of Barbera acidity. Cabernet brings savoury firmness, Merlot softens the centre, and integrated oak adds cocoa and sweet spice before a smooth, persistent finish.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003ch4\u003eFood pairing\u003c\/h4\u003e\u003cp\u003eTry with pappardelle and duck ragù, rosemary-roasted lamb, steak with peppercorn sauce, or baked aubergines with lentils and Parmesan. A short decant and a serving temperature of 16–17°C will show the blend at its most expressive.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003ch4\u003eBackground story\u003c\/h4\u003e\u003cp\u003eIl Bacialé takes its name from the traditional Piedmontese matchmaker, an apt image for a wine built on bringing different grapes together. Rather than disguising their contrasts, Braida uses Barbera's natural vitality to connect the richer, more structured varieties into a coherent whole.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eThe wine also reflects Giacomo Bologna's curiosity and willingness to look beyond established local practice. Sommelier's Choice has worked with the Bologna family for over two decades, a collaboration sustained by that combination of Piedmontese identity, thoughtful innovation and warm hospitality.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Braida di Giacomo Bologna","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":7848989982780,"sku":"GBBACIALE17","price":28.1,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0036\/1984\/8252\/files\/braida-di-giacomo-bologna-il-baciale-monferrato-rosso-doc-2017-0-standardised-600x960.png?v=1791377123"},{"product_id":"montebruna-barbera-dasti-docg-2021","title":"\"Montebruna\" Barbera d’Asti DOCG 2021","description":"\u003ch4\u003eVineyard and winemaking\u003c\/h4\u003e\u003cp\u003eMontebruna is made from 100% Barbera grown in the family's consolidated vineyard at Rocchetta Tanaro. The local mixture of sand and clay contributes perfume, depth and a supple framework, complementing the grape's naturally vivid acidity.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eThe 2021 spent approximately two weeks fermenting and macerating in temperature-controlled stainless steel before maturing for a year in large Slavonian oak. The larger vessels build harmony and savoury depth without masking the purity of the fruit.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003ch4\u003eTasting notes\u003c\/h4\u003e\u003ch5\u003eAppearance\u003c\/h5\u003e\u003cp\u003eBrilliant violet-ruby with youthful depth and clarity.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003ch5\u003eNose\u003c\/h5\u003e\u003cp\u003eFresh cherry, crushed raspberry and plum are lifted by wild rose, anise and a light touch of sweet spice.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003ch5\u003ePalate\u003c\/h5\u003e\u003cp\u003eFluid and energetic, with succulent red fruit, mouth-watering acidity and smooth, discreet tannins. Large-cask ageing lends gentle breadth and a hint of cocoa, while the fruit remains bright through a fragrant, persistent finish.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003ch4\u003eFood pairing\u003c\/h4\u003e\u003cp\u003ePair with tagliatelle and beef ragù, roast pork with fennel, meatballs in tomato sauce, or baked gnocchi with fontina. It is equally comfortable at a Sunday lunch or a relaxed midweek supper; serve at around 16°C.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003ch4\u003eBackground story\u003c\/h4\u003e\u003cp\u003eGiacomo Bologna began the work of reassembling Montebruna after the historic vineyard had been fragmented among different owners. His son Giuseppe completed the seven-year process, restoring a single voice to the site and turning a family dream into one of Braida's most expressive Barberas.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eThe 2021 earned 93 points from Falstaff, 92 from Vinous and Wine Enthusiast, and 91 from Wine Advocate and James Suckling. Sommelier's Choice has collaborated with the Bologna family for more than twenty years, sharing their belief that Barbera can unite everyday generosity with genuine distinction.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Braida di Giacomo Bologna","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":7848990441532,"sku":"GBMONTE21","price":30.7,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0036\/1984\/8252\/files\/braida-di-giacomo-bologna-montebruna-barbera-d-asti-docg-2021-0-standardised-600x960.png?v=1791377131"},{"product_id":"brachetto-dacqui-docg-2023","title":"Brachetto d’Acqui DOCG 2023","description":"\u003ch4\u003eVineyard and winemaking\u003c\/h4\u003e\u003cp\u003eBrachetto d'Acqui is made from 100% Brachetto, an aromatic red grape associated with the hills around Acqui Terme in Piedmont. Careful harvesting protects its delicate rose and red-fruit fragrance, while the variety's acidity provides the freshness needed to balance natural sweetness.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eCool fermentation in stainless steel preserves the primary aromas and is halted with residual grape sugar remaining. A gentle sparkle gives the wine its buoyant frizzante texture, producing a sweet red that is light on its feet and best enjoyed young.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003ch4\u003eTasting notes\u003c\/h4\u003e\u003ch5\u003eAppearance\u003c\/h5\u003e\u003cp\u003eLight ruby with purple reflections, a lively pink froth and persistent fine bubbles.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003ch5\u003eNose\u003c\/h5\u003e\u003cp\u003eWild strawberry, raspberry and red cherry are wrapped in fragrant rose petal and a hint of sweet spice.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003ch5\u003ePalate\u003c\/h5\u003e\u003cp\u003eSoft, delicate and sweet, with bright berry fruit refreshed by fine bubbles and clean acidity. Floral notes return through the palate, leading to a long, gently perfumed finish rather than a heavy one.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003ch4\u003eFood pairing\u003c\/h4\u003e\u003cp\u003eA charming match for chocolate-covered strawberries, raspberry roulade, cherry Bakewell tart, or a plate of toasted hazelnuts and dried figs. Serve at 7–8°C and enjoy while the fruit and sparkle are at their most vivid.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003ch4\u003eBackground story\u003c\/h4\u003e\u003cp\u003eBrachetto has a long association with Acqui and a romantic reputation in Piedmontese wine culture. Braida's version keeps that sense of occasion while focusing on the grape's clearest virtues: red-berry perfume, rose fragrance, moderate sweetness and an enlivening fizz.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eThe 2023 received 91 points from Falstaff. Sommelier's Choice has collaborated with the Bologna family for more than twenty years, and Brachetto shows the same attention to balance found in their grander wines, expressed here with a lighter and more celebratory touch.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Braida di Giacomo Bologna","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":7848992833596,"sku":"GBBRACH23","price":20.7,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0036\/1984\/8252\/files\/braida-di-giacomo-bologna-brachetto-d-acqui-docg-2023-0-standardised-600x960.png?v=1791377138"},{"product_id":"asso-di-fiori-chardonnay-langhe-doc-2018","title":"\"Asso di Fiori\" Chardonnay Langhe DOC 2018","description":"\u003ch4\u003eVineyard and winemaking\u003c\/h4\u003e\u003cp\u003eAsso di Fiori is made from 100% late-harvested Chardonnay grown at the Serra dei Fiori estate in Trezzo Tinella. The hillside setting in the Langhe allows the grapes to gain richness while retaining the freshness and fragrance needed to keep this generous style in balance.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eOnly the finest free-run must from a delicate pressing is used. After clarification and racking, the wine ferments and matures in oak casks for eight months, followed by a further eight months in bottle, bringing together ripe fruit, creamy texture and measured smoky complexity.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003ch4\u003eTasting notes\u003c\/h4\u003e\u003ch5\u003eAppearance\u003c\/h5\u003e\u003cp\u003eBright golden lemon, clear and luminous, with the depth of colour expected from a mature, oak-raised Chardonnay.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003ch5\u003eNose\u003c\/h5\u003e\u003cp\u003eRipe peach, melon and baked apple meet vanilla pod, toasted hazelnut and a delicate smoky note.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003ch5\u003ePalate\u003c\/h5\u003e\u003cp\u003eBroad and silky, with orchard fruit and lemon curd framed by fresh acidity. Oak brings gentle spice and a rounded, nutty texture rather than overt sweetness, while hints of preserved citrus and toast lengthen the composed finish.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003ch4\u003eFood pairing\u003c\/h4\u003e\u003cp\u003eServe with roast turbot and brown-butter sauce, chicken with morels, pumpkin ravioli with sage, or cauliflower cheese made with mature Cheddar. A serving temperature of 10–12°C will reveal both its freshness and its developed, savoury detail.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003ch4\u003eBackground story\u003c\/h4\u003e\u003cp\u003eThe name Asso di Fiori means “Ace of Flowers”, identifying the wine as the pinnacle of the Serra dei Fiori estate's Chardonnay production. Its reference to the “flower” of the must also reflects the decision to use only the purest juice obtained from gentle pressing.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eSerra dei Fiori broadened the Bologna family's work beyond Barbera and Rocchetta Tanaro, giving them a second Piedmontese landscape in which to explore white varieties. Sommelier's Choice has collaborated with Braida for more than two decades, sharing a belief in wines with both individual character and a strong sense of place.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Braida di Giacomo Bologna","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":7849026027580,"sku":"GBASSO18","price":35.7,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0036\/1984\/8252\/files\/braida-di-giacomo-bologna-asso-di-fiori-chardonnay-langhe-doc-2018-0-standardised-600x960.png?v=1791377309"},{"product_id":"il-baciale-monferrato-rosso-doc-2010-magnum","title":"\"Il Bacialé\" Monferrato Rosso DOC 2010 (Magnum)","description":"\u003ch4\u003eVineyard and winemaking\u003c\/h4\u003e\u003cp\u003eIl Bacialé 2010 brings together 60% Barbera with Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon and Cabernet Franc from Braida vineyards in Castelnuovo Calcea, San Marzano Oliveto and Rocchetta Tanaro. Barbera supplies energy and red-fruit brightness, while the French varieties add darker fruit, tannic shape and savoury depth.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eThe varieties were vinified separately: Barbera matured in large Slavonian oak, while the French components spent 12 months in smaller French barriques. After blending, the wine rested for a further 12 months in large casks and another year in bottle. The magnum has encouraged slow development; stand it upright before opening and decant according to condition.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003ch4\u003eTasting notes\u003c\/h4\u003e\u003ch5\u003eAppearance\u003c\/h5\u003e\u003cp\u003eDeep garnet with ruby depth at the centre and a mature brick-red rim.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003ch5\u003eNose\u003c\/h5\u003e\u003cp\u003eBlackberry, dried cherry and plum unfold into walnut, cedar, black pepper and a gentle smoky note.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003ch5\u003ePalate\u003c\/h5\u003e\u003cp\u003eFull and harmonious, with mature black fruit framed by smooth tannins and Barbera's sustaining acidity. Dark chocolate, tobacco and savoury spice add detail, while the large format has helped preserve freshness through a long, settled finish.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003ch4\u003eFood pairing\u003c\/h4\u003e\u003cp\u003eBring the magnum to the table with a rib of beef, slow-roast pork shoulder, venison and chestnut casserole, or a board of mature hard cheeses. Serve at around 17°C and allow the wine to open steadily rather than aerating it aggressively.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003ch4\u003eBackground story\u003c\/h4\u003e\u003cp\u003eIn Piedmontese tradition, a bacialé was a matchmaker. Braida chose the name for a wine that performs the same role in the cellar, bringing Barbera together with international varieties and allowing the contrasting grapes to find a balanced, characterful union.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eGiacomo Bologna's openness to ideas beyond Piedmont helped drive the estate's reinvention of Barbera. Sommelier's Choice has collaborated with the Bologna family for more than twenty years; this mature 2010 magnum reflects both their experimental spirit and their instinct for convivial wines made to be shared.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Braida di Giacomo Bologna","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":7849027239996,"sku":"BACIALEMG10","price":54.75,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0036\/1984\/8252\/files\/braida-di-giacomo-bologna-il-baciale-monferrato-rosso-doc-2017-0-standardised-600x960.png?v=1791377123"},{"product_id":"bricco-della-bigotta-barbera-dasti-docg-2005","title":"\"Bricco della Bigotta\" Barbera d’Asti DOCG 2005","description":"\u003ch4\u003eVineyard and winemaking\u003c\/h4\u003e\u003cp\u003eBricco della Bigotta is made from 100% Barbera grown in an estate vineyard in Castelnuovo Calcea. Its west-facing hillside and substantial sandy, calcareous soils give low-yielding, mature vines the conditions to produce fruit of impressive concentration while retaining Barbera's defining acidity.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eFollowing an extended maceration on the skins, the wine is matured for 15 months in barriques and then for a further year in bottle. At more than twenty years from harvest, this 2005 is fully mature and should be stood upright before opening, then poured carefully to separate any natural sediment.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003ch4\u003eTasting notes\u003c\/h4\u003e\u003ch5\u003eAppearance\u003c\/h5\u003e\u003cp\u003eDeep garnet at the centre, shading to brick and tawny tones at the rim.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003ch5\u003eNose\u003c\/h5\u003e\u003cp\u003eDried sour cherry and plum preserve are joined by violet, liquorice, roasted coffee and old leather, with a subtle lift of white pepper.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003ch5\u003ePalate\u003c\/h5\u003e\u003cp\u003eDense yet resolved, with mature dark fruit and balsamic freshness supported by smooth, settled tannins. Notes of cocoa, cedar and savoury earth now sit alongside the wine's remaining cherry richness, leading to a long, warming finish. Bottle variation is natural at this age.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003ch4\u003eFood pairing\u003c\/h4\u003e\u003cp\u003ePair with braised hare, beef Wellington, slow-cooked venison with juniper, or Castelmagno cheese. Avoid lengthy aeration at first: taste on opening and allow the wine to develop gently in the glass.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003ch4\u003eBackground story\u003c\/h4\u003e\u003cp\u003eThe vineyard takes its name from a devout woman who once lived nearby and was known locally as “la bigotta”. Braida's wry account says that she concerned herself with the outward rules of religion; the family supplied the spirit, turning the nickname into one of its most characterful single-vineyard Barberas.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eGiacomo Bologna's pioneering work with low yields and small oak barrels helped prove that Barbera could make profound, ageworthy wine. Sommelier's Choice has enjoyed a relationship with the Bologna family for over twenty years, and bottles such as this mature 2005 show the longevity behind that conviction.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Braida di Giacomo Bologna","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":7849028059196,"sku":"BIGOTTA05","price":76.35,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0036\/1984\/8252\/files\/braida-di-giacomo-bologna-bricco-della-bigotta-barbera-d-asti-docg-2005-0-standardised-600x960.png?v=1791377332"},{"product_id":"brachetto-dacqui-docg-2024-half-bottle","title":"Brachetto d’Acqui DOCG 2024 (Half bottle)","description":"\u003ch4\u003eVineyard and winemaking\u003c\/h4\u003e\u003cp\u003eThis half bottle is made solely from Brachetto, the fragrant native red grape of the Acqui hills. The fruit is handled carefully to retain aromas of berries and roses, with natural acidity giving the finished sweet wine brightness and poise.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eFermentation takes place at low temperature in stainless steel and is stopped before all the natural sugar has fermented. The resulting wine retains gentle sweetness and gains a fine frizzante sparkle, making the compact format a fresh, festive choice for two.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003ch4\u003eTasting notes\u003c\/h4\u003e\u003ch5\u003eAppearance\u003c\/h5\u003e\u003cp\u003eBright, pale ruby-purple with a lively mousse and delicate stream of bubbles.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003ch5\u003eNose\u003c\/h5\u003e\u003cp\u003eFresh raspberry, pomegranate and ripe red grape mingle with dried rose, violet and a touch of candied orange.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003ch5\u003ePalate\u003c\/h5\u003e\u003cp\u003eLight-bodied and softly sweet, with juicy red fruit, floral lift and a persistent but delicate fizz. A crisp seam of acidity prevents the palate becoming cloying, and the finish is pure, scented and refreshingly brief.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003ch4\u003eFood pairing\u003c\/h4\u003e\u003cp\u003ePerfect for sharing with a chocolate fondant, summer pudding, rose-and-raspberry macarons, or simply fresh figs and almonds. Chill to 7–8°C and open immediately before serving to keep the sparkle at its brightest.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003ch4\u003eBackground story\u003c\/h4\u003e\u003cp\u003eThe sweet, aromatic wines of Acqui have carried associations with romance and celebration for generations. Braida approaches Brachetto with the same emphasis on varietal character found across the range, allowing fragrance and delicacy—not weight—to define the wine.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eThe 2024 half bottle received 91 points from Falstaff. It also forms part of a portfolio Sommelier's Choice has represented through more than twenty years of collaboration with the Bologna family, a relationship grounded in both quality and their instinctive sense of hospitality.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Braida di Giacomo Bologna","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":7849029206076,"sku":"GBBRACHHF24","price":14.2,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0036\/1984\/8252\/files\/braida-di-giacomo-bologna-brachetto-d-acqui-2024-half-bottle-0-standardised-600x960.png?v=1791377339"},{"product_id":"montebruna-barbera-dasti-docg-2011-half-bottle","title":"\"Montebruna\" Barbera d’Asti DOCG 2011 (Half bottle)","description":"\u003ch4\u003eVineyard and winemaking\u003c\/h4\u003e\u003cp\u003eMontebruna is 100% Barbera from a reunited estate vineyard in Rocchetta Tanaro. Its mixed sand and clay soils give perfume and shape to the fruit, while the grape's naturally high acidity brings freshness even in a generous vintage.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eThe must spends around two weeks in temperature-controlled stainless-steel tanks before the wine matures for a year in large Slavonian oak. This 2011 half bottle has evolved more quickly than a standard format and is fully mature; stand upright beforehand, open carefully and assess without prolonged decanting.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003ch4\u003eTasting notes\u003c\/h4\u003e\u003ch5\u003eAppearance\u003c\/h5\u003e\u003cp\u003eMature garnet with brick and tawny highlights at the rim.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003ch5\u003eNose\u003c\/h5\u003e\u003cp\u003eDried cherry, blackcurrant and plum are layered with tobacco leaf, autumn herbs, cocoa and a quiet note of vanilla.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003ch5\u003ePalate\u003c\/h5\u003e\u003cp\u003eRounded and savoury, with softened berry fruit supported by lively acidity and fully resolved tannins. Earth, dark chocolate and gentle smoke bring mature complexity, leading to a fine, dry finish. Individual bottle development should be expected at this age and in this format.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003ch4\u003eFood pairing\u003c\/h4\u003e\u003cp\u003eA well-judged size for two alongside calves' liver and onions, a small roast duck, mushroom stroganoff, or mature Red Leicester. Serve around 16°C and let the wine reveal itself gradually in the glass.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003ch4\u003eBackground story\u003c\/h4\u003e\u003cp\u003eMontebruna fulfilled Giacomo Bologna's dream of reuniting historic vineyard land once held by the Marchesi Incisa della Rocchetta. Giuseppe Bologna spent seven years bringing the divided parcels back together, and the wine takes its name from the cottage standing among the vines.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eThe 2011 received 91 points from Wine Spectator. Sommelier's Choice has collaborated with the Bologna family for more than twenty years, and this mature half bottle offers an intimate view of a wine whose story is inseparable from their patience and attachment to place.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Braida di Giacomo Bologna","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":7849037791292,"sku":"MONTEHF11","price":16.2,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0036\/1984\/8252\/files\/braida-di-giacomo-bologna-montebruna-barbera-d-asti-docg-2021-0-standardised-600x960.png?v=1791377131"},{"product_id":"vigna-senza-nome-moscato-dasti-docg-2022","title":"\"Vigna Senza Nome\" Moscato d'Asti DOCG 2022","description":"\u003ch4\u003eVineyard and winemaking\u003c\/h4\u003e\u003cp\u003eVigna Senza Nome is made from 100% Moscato Bianco grown in Piedmont. The variety's natural perfume and lively acidity are central to Moscato d'Asti, allowing the wine to carry gentle sweetness with fragrance and lift rather than heaviness.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eThe must ferments at controlled temperature in a pressurised tank, preserving the grape's floral aromas and creating its delicate sparkle. Fermentation is stopped while natural sweetness remains, resulting in a lightly alcoholic, softly foaming wine designed to be enjoyed fresh and cool.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003ch4\u003eTasting notes\u003c\/h4\u003e\u003ch5\u003eAppearance\u003c\/h5\u003e\u003cp\u003eBrilliant pale straw with a creamy, fine froth and persistent stream of bubbles.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003ch5\u003eNose\u003c\/h5\u003e\u003cp\u003eFresh grape, white peach and pear are lifted by orange blossom, rose and a subtle musky note.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003ch5\u003ePalate\u003c\/h5\u003e\u003cp\u003eGracefully sweet and feather-light, with juicy orchard fruit, citrus freshness and a gentle, mouth-filling sparkle. The acidity keeps the palate poised, leading to a clean, aromatic finish of blossom and ripe grape.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003ch4\u003eFood pairing\u003c\/h4\u003e\u003cp\u003eServe well chilled with peach pavlova, lemon drizzle cake, elderflower syllabub, or a fresh fruit tart. Its modest alcohol and fragrant sweetness also make it an appealing glass with afternoon pastries or at the close of a summer lunch.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003ch4\u003eBackground story\u003c\/h4\u003e\u003cp\u003eVigna Senza Nome means “the vineyard without a name”, an unshowy title for one of Braida's most immediately joyful wines. Its identity rests not on oak or concentration but on the unmistakable aroma of Moscato and the natural pleasure of a lightly sparkling sweet wine.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eThe bottling reveals the playful thread that runs from Giacomo Bologna's early frizzante wines through the modern range. Sommelier's Choice has collaborated with the Bologna family for more than two decades, sharing their belief that precision and conviviality belong in the same bottle.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Braida di Giacomo Bologna","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":7849038118972,"sku":"GBMOSCATOBT22","price":20.7,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0036\/1984\/8252\/files\/braida-moscato-dasti-docg-vigna-senza-nome-2022-0-standardised-600x960.png?v=1791377399"},{"product_id":"vigna-senza-nome-moscato-dasti-docg-2022-half-bottle","title":"\"Vigna Senza Nome\" Moscato d'Asti DOCG 2022 (Half bottle)","description":"\u003ch4\u003eVineyard and winemaking\u003c\/h4\u003e\u003cp\u003eThis half bottle of Vigna Senza Nome is made entirely from aromatic Moscato Bianco grown in Piedmont. The grape's intense natural perfume, fresh acidity and ability to retain sweetness at low alcohol give Moscato d'Asti its singular lightness.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eCool fermentation in a sealed, pressurised tank protects the delicate fruit and forms a fine sparkle. The process is halted before all the grape sugar is converted, preserving natural sweetness and producing a fresh, softly foaming wine best served young and thoroughly chilled.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003ch4\u003eTasting notes\u003c\/h4\u003e\u003ch5\u003eAppearance\u003c\/h5\u003e\u003cp\u003ePale, luminous straw yellow with a fine bead and soft white froth.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003ch5\u003eNose\u003c\/h5\u003e\u003cp\u003eMuscat grape, nectarine and mandarin are joined by jasmine, honeysuckle and a delicate hint of fresh mint.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003ch5\u003ePalate\u003c\/h5\u003e\u003cp\u003eSweet but beautifully lifted, with ripe peach and citrus carried by gentle bubbles and clean acidity. The texture is light and creamy, finishing with lingering notes of grape, blossom and orange zest.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003ch4\u003eFood pairing\u003c\/h4\u003e\u003cp\u003eThe half bottle is ideal for two with Bakewell tart, poached pear, a small bowl of strawberries and cream, or pistachio biscuits. Serve at 7–8°C and pour into white-wine glasses rather than narrow flutes to release its perfume.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003ch4\u003eBackground story\u003c\/h4\u003e\u003cp\u003eIts name translates as “the vineyard without a name”, reflecting the Bologna family's ability to treat an uncomplicated pleasure with wit and affection. Vigna Senza Nome places Moscato's scent and freshness at centre stage, with the half-bottle format particularly suited to a small dessert course.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eBraida's reputation may rest on profound Barbera, but wines like this show the family's lighter, more spontaneous side. Sommelier's Choice has worked with the Bolognas for over twenty years, a relationship enriched by the range's breadth as well as its prestige bottlings.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Braida di Giacomo Bologna","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":7849038315580,"sku":"GBMOSCATOHF22","price":14.2,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0036\/1984\/8252\/files\/braida-moscato-d-asti-docg-vigna-senza-nome-2022-half-bottle-0-standardised-600x960.png?v=1791377406"},{"product_id":"bricco-delluccellone-barbera-dasti-docg-2018-magnum","title":"\"Bricco Dell’Uccellone\" Barbera d’Asti DOCG 2018 (Magnum)","description":"\u003ch4\u003eVineyard and winemaking\u003c\/h4\u003e\u003cp\u003eBricco dell'Uccellone is made solely from Barbera grown on the estate's celebrated hillside at Rocchetta Tanaro. The vineyard's clay and sand soils, favourable exposure and carefully controlled yields produce deeply flavoured grapes while preserving the variety's naturally vigorous acidity.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eThe 2018 was matured in small oak barrels before further refinement in bottle. Presented in magnum, it has evolved more slowly than a standard bottle, retaining generous fruit and energy while the oak and tannins integrate. Decanting for around an hour will help it unfold.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003ch4\u003eTasting notes\u003c\/h4\u003e\u003ch5\u003eAppearance\u003c\/h5\u003e\u003cp\u003eIntense ruby-garnet with a dark core and youthful depth for its age.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003ch5\u003eNose\u003c\/h5\u003e\u003cp\u003eBlack cherry and wild berry aromas are threaded with mint, liquorice, vanilla and dark chocolate, followed by a touch of sweet tobacco.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003ch5\u003ePalate\u003c\/h5\u003e\u003cp\u003eExpansive and structured, with ripe cherry, blackberry and plum held in balance by mouth-watering Barbera acidity. Polished tannins and savoury oak lend form without hardening the fruit, while cocoa, clove and balsamic notes build towards a long, resonant finish.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003ch4\u003eFood pairing\u003c\/h4\u003e\u003cp\u003eThe magnum format makes this ideal for a shared table: serve with roast rib of beef, lamb shoulder with rosemary, baked pasta with beef ragù, or aged Taleggio. Pour at 17°C in generous glasses to show the wine's scale and aromatic range.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003ch4\u003eBackground story\u003c\/h4\u003e\u003cp\u003eBricco dell'Uccellone takes its name from an elderly woman who once lived near the vineyard and was nicknamed “l'uselun”—the big bird. First made from the 1982 harvest, the wine became Giacomo Bologna's defining demonstration that Barbera could combine richness, oak maturation and genuine longevity.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eThat bold idea helped change the standing of Barbera far beyond Piedmont. Sommelier's Choice has worked with the Bologna family for over twenty years, valuing not only the precision of wines such as Uccellone but also the warmth and conviction with which they are made.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Braida di Giacomo Bologna","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":7849042968636,"sku":"UCCELLMG18","price":131.75,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0036\/1984\/8252\/files\/braida-di-giacomo-bologna-barbera-d-asti-docg-bricco-dell-uccellone-2018-magnum-0-standardised-600x960.png?v=1791377458"},{"product_id":"bricco-delluccellone-barbera-dasti-2008-magnum","title":"Bricco Dell’Uccellone Barbera d’Asti 2008 (Magnum)","description":"\u003ch4\u003eVineyard and winemaking\u003c\/h4\u003e\u003cp\u003eBricco dell'Uccellone is 100% Barbera from a six-hectare, south-facing estate vineyard above Rocchetta Tanaro. Its mixed clay and yellow-sand soils, together with reduced yields, produce fruit of exceptional concentration while preserving the acidity that gives fine Barbera its vitality.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eThe wine was matured in small French oak barrels and then refined in bottle. This 2008 magnum has aged more slowly than a standard bottle, allowing its powerful fruit and oak structure to integrate over time. Stand upright before opening and decant carefully, checking its development as it meets the air.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003ch4\u003eTasting notes\u003c\/h4\u003e\u003ch5\u003eAppearance\u003c\/h5\u003e\u003cp\u003eDeep garnet with a dark core and a mature brick-red margin.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003ch5\u003eNose\u003c\/h5\u003e\u003cp\u003eBlack cherry, dried blackberry and plum are layered with mint, liquorice, cigar box and polished oak.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003ch5\u003ePalate\u003c\/h5\u003e\u003cp\u003eVoluptuous yet still energetic, with concentrated dark fruit carried by Barbera's persistent acidity. The tannins are smooth and integrated, while cocoa, balsamic herbs and savoury earth mark its evolution. The finish is resonant, warm and impressively long.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003ch4\u003eFood pairing\u003c\/h4\u003e\u003cp\u003eShare with beef shin braised in Barbera, roast saddle of venison, truffle and Parmesan polenta, or a mature blue-veined cheese. Serve at around 17°C in large glasses and avoid rushing the wine after opening.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003ch4\u003eBackground story\u003c\/h4\u003e\u003cp\u003eThe vineyard's name recalls an elderly woman who lived nearby and was nicknamed “l'uselun”, the big bird. First produced from the 1982 harvest, Bricco dell'Uccellone became Giacomo Bologna's landmark demonstration that low yields and French barriques could reveal an ageworthy, world-class dimension to Barbera.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eThat achievement altered the international standing of both the grape and the estate. Sommelier's Choice has enjoyed more than twenty years of collaboration with the Bologna family, and this mature magnum captures the ambition, generosity and longevity at the heart of that relationship.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Braida di Giacomo Bologna","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":7849043132476,"sku":"UCCELLMG8","price":160.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0036\/1984\/8252\/files\/braida-di-giacomo-bologna-barbera-d-asti-docg-bricco-dell-uccellone-2018-magnum-0-standardised-600x960.png?v=1791377458"},{"product_id":"la-monella-barbera-del-monferrato-doc-2020","title":"\"La Monella\" Barbera del Monferrato DOC 2020","description":"\u003ch4\u003eVineyard and winemaking\u003c\/h4\u003e\u003cp\u003eLa Monella is made from 100% Barbera grown in the Monferrato hills. The variety's bright acidity and exuberant red-fruit character make it especially well suited to this lightly sparkling expression, which is intended to feel immediate, cheerful and refreshingly direct.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eTemperature-controlled fermentation preserves the fruit and fragrance, while a second fermentation in pressurised tank creates the gentle frizzante sparkle. The 2020 was made for youthful enjoyment, and should be served cool to emphasise its freshness and lively texture.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003ch4\u003eTasting notes\u003c\/h4\u003e\u003ch5\u003eAppearance\u003c\/h5\u003e\u003cp\u003eVivid purple-ruby with a bright, lightly foaming mousse.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003ch5\u003eNose\u003c\/h5\u003e\u003cp\u003eExplosive aromas of sour cherry, wild strawberry and redcurrant are joined by violet and a fresh, vinous note.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003ch5\u003ePalate\u003c\/h5\u003e\u003cp\u003eJuicy and buoyant, with fine bubbles lifting crunchy red fruit and Barbera's appetising acidity. Soft tannins give just enough grip, while the finish is dry, brisk and filled with cherry and cranberry.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003ch4\u003eFood pairing\u003c\/h4\u003e\u003cp\u003eServe lightly chilled with salami and coppa, pork and fennel sausages, pizza with spicy nduja, or a rich tomato-based pasta bake. The gentle fizz and acidity make it particularly useful with salty, fatty or mildly spiced dishes.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003ch4\u003eBackground story\u003c\/h4\u003e\u003cp\u003eLa Monella means “the naughty girl”, a name chosen by Giacomo Bologna for Barbera at its most playful. His first lightly sparkling Barbera was bottled in 1961, long before the oak-aged crus that later made Braida internationally famous, and the wine remains an affectionate link to those beginnings.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eIts unbuttoned character reveals an important side of the family's philosophy: serious attention in the vineyard does not require solemnity at the table. Sommelier's Choice has worked with Braida for more than two decades, drawn as much to this warmth and personality as to the estate's technical ambition.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Braida di Giacomo Bologna","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":9420544933948,"sku":"GBLAMONELLA20","price":22.9,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0036\/1984\/8252\/files\/braida-di-giacomo-bologna-la-monella-barbera-del-monferrato-doc2020-0-standardised-600x960.png?v=1791377616"},{"product_id":"serra-dei-fiori-la-regina-langhe-nascetta-doc-2018","title":"\"Serra dei Fiori La Regina\" Langhe Nascetta DOC 2018","description":"\u003ch4\u003eVineyard and winemaking\u003c\/h4\u003e\u003cp\u003eLa Regina is made from 100% Nascetta at Tenuta Serra dei Fiori in the rugged hills of Trezzo Tinella. Sandy soils rich in ancient marine deposits, together with the site's altitude, allow this semi-aromatic Langhe variety to combine citrus and floral fragrance with a strong mineral line.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eThe fruit is vinified in stainless steel without oak, retaining the grape's clarity and fresh herbal character. Nascetta is also capable of rewarding bottle age; the 2018 has moved beyond primary fruit towards flint, dried herbs and savoury depth while keeping its natural acidity.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003ch4\u003eTasting notes\u003c\/h4\u003e\u003ch5\u003eAppearance\u003c\/h5\u003e\u003cp\u003eBright lemon-gold, with clear depth of colour from bottle development.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003ch5\u003eNose\u003c\/h5\u003e\u003cp\u003eGrapefruit, pear and baked apple sit beside acacia, hay and fresh herbs, followed by a distinctive flinty, lightly waxy note.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003ch5\u003ePalate\u003c\/h5\u003e\u003cp\u003eTextured and dry, opening with mature citrus and orchard fruit before turning saline and mineral. Fresh acidity gives the wine direction, while notes of straw, preserved lemon and stone linger on a savoury finish.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003ch4\u003eFood pairing\u003c\/h4\u003e\u003cp\u003eServe with roast monkfish, chicken and leek pie, crab gratin, or grilled courgettes with whipped goat's cheese. Around 10–11°C is ideal: too cold and the wine's evolved mineral and herbal detail will be muted.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003ch4\u003eBackground story\u003c\/h4\u003e\u003cp\u003eLa Regina celebrates the recovery of Nascetta, an old native variety once close to disappearing from commercial view. It also reflects the partnership between the Bologna family and the Giacosa brothers at Serra dei Fiori, where Braida began backing this little-known grape in the 1990s.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eCalling the wine “The Queen” gives Nascetta the prominence the family believes it deserves. Sommelier's Choice has worked with Braida for more than twenty years, and this mature 2018 shows why that relationship embraces the estate's exploratory whites as well as its famous Barberas.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Braida di Giacomo Bologna","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":31911020625980,"sku":"GBREGINA18","price":27.05,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0036\/1984\/8252\/files\/braida-serra-dei-fiori-la-regina-langhe-nascetta-doc-2018-0-standardised-600x960.png?v=1791378010"},{"product_id":"montebruna-barbera-dasti-docg-2014-jeroboam","title":"\"Montebruna\" Barbera d’Asti DOCG 2014 (Jeroboam)","description":"\u003ch4\u003eVineyard and winemaking\u003c\/h4\u003e\u003cp\u003eMontebruna comes entirely from Barbera grown on the family's vineyard at Rocchetta Tanaro. Sand and clay in the local mixed soils encourage both aromatic intensity and structure, while Barbera's incisive acidity keeps the wine animated as it matures.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eFollowing roughly two weeks of temperature-controlled fermentation and maceration, the wine spends a year in large Slavonian oak. This 2014 is presented in a three-litre jeroboam, a format that slows bottle development and helps preserve fruit and freshness; stand upright before serving and allow time for a large-format decant.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003ch4\u003eTasting notes\u003c\/h4\u003e\u003ch5\u003eAppearance\u003c\/h5\u003e\u003cp\u003eDeep ruby-garnet with a concentrated centre and gently mature edge.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003ch5\u003eNose\u003c\/h5\u003e\u003cp\u003eRipe cherry and raspberry compote meet dried rose, sweet tobacco, dark chocolate and a whisper of smoky spice.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003ch5\u003ePalate\u003c\/h5\u003e\u003cp\u003eGenerous and vibrant, with juicy red fruit stretched across Barbera's bright acidity. Polished tannins and restrained large-cask oak add shape, while plum, cocoa and dried herbs gather on the long finish. The jeroboam retains an impressive sense of energy.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003ch4\u003eFood pairing\u003c\/h4\u003e\u003cp\u003eDesigned for a gathering, this is excellent with a whole roast sirloin, porchetta with crackling, a large tray of baked beef cannelloni, or a generous selection of hard cheeses. Serve at 16–17°C and use suitably broad glassware.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003ch4\u003eBackground story\u003c\/h4\u003e\u003cp\u003eThe Montebruna vineyard was pieced back together over seven years and 35 legal documents after its historic parcels had passed into separate ownership. Reuniting the land realised a Bologna family ambition and inspired art, poetry and music as well as the label's evocation of vineyard rows and landscape.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eThe 2014 received 93 points from Wine Enthusiast. Sommelier's Choice has worked with Braida for over two decades, and this rare jeroboam embodies the family's convivial spirit as clearly as it expresses their long commitment to Barbera and Rocchetta Tanaro.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Braida di Giacomo Bologna","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":31911078002748,"sku":"MONTE3LT14","price":146.05,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0036\/1984\/8252\/files\/braida-di-giacomo-bologna-montebruna-barbera-d-asti-docg-2021-0-standardised-600x960.png?v=1791377131"},{"product_id":"ai-suma-barbera-dasti-docg-2017","title":"\"Ai Suma\" Barbera d'Asti DOCG 2017","description":"\u003ch4\u003eVineyard and winemaking\u003c\/h4\u003e\u003cp\u003eAi Suma is made from 100% Barbera, harvested late from Braida's estate vineyards in the hills of Rocchetta Tanaro. The additional time on the vine concentrates the fruit while Barbera's naturally vivid acidity provides essential balance, and the wine is produced only when the growing season offers the quality and conditions the family requires.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eThe grapes undergo 20 days of temperature-controlled maceration on the skins. The wine then spends 15 months in oak casks followed by a further year in bottle, building depth around the late-harvest fruit while allowing the variety's energy to remain clear.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003ch4\u003eTasting notes\u003c\/h4\u003e\u003ch5\u003eAppearance\u003c\/h5\u003e\u003cp\u003eVery deep ruby with purple-garnet reflections and notable concentration.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003ch5\u003eNose\u003c\/h5\u003e\u003cp\u003eBlackberry, damson and black plum are layered with liquorice, cocoa, vanilla and a savoury note of undergrowth.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003ch5\u003ePalate\u003c\/h5\u003e\u003cp\u003ePowerful and enveloping, with plum compote and bramble fruit carried by bright acidity and a firm but velvety tannic frame. Mocha, balsamic herbs and sweet spice broaden the palate, while a fine savoury line keeps the richness in proportion. The finish is long, warming and persistent.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003ch4\u003eFood pairing\u003c\/h4\u003e\u003cp\u003eBest with substantial dishes such as slow-braised beef shin, roast haunch of venison, ox cheek with polenta, or a well-aged Parmigiano Reggiano. Decant for an hour and serve at around 17°C to give the concentrated fruit and oak room to open.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003ch4\u003eBackground story\u003c\/h4\u003e\u003cp\u003eAi Suma began with the 1989 harvest, when Giacomo Bologna delayed picking a parcel while waiting for Georgian friends to arrive. Two extra weeks of fine weather left the grapes slightly dried and intensely concentrated; the result prompted the Piedmontese expression “Ai Suma”—“Here we are”—and became a wine reserved for exceptional years.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eBraida transformed modern perceptions of Barbera by treating the grape with the ambition normally afforded to Italy's most celebrated varieties. Sommelier's Choice has worked with the Bologna family for more than twenty years, a long-standing collaboration built on their uncompromising quality and distinctive generosity.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Braida di Giacomo Bologna","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":32591997009980,"sku":"GBAISUMA17","price":73.35,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0036\/1984\/8252\/files\/braida-di-giacomo-bologna-ai-suma-barbera-dasti-docg-2017-0-standardised-600x960.png?v=1791378390"},{"product_id":"rosso-di-braida-monferrato-rosso-doc-2023","title":"\"Rosso di Braida\" Monferrato Rosso DOC 2023","description":"\u003ch4\u003eVineyard and winemaking\u003c\/h4\u003e\u003cp\u003eRosso di Braida 2023 is a blend of Barbera, Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot from Braida's Monferrato vineyards. Barbera brings cherry fruit and bright acidity, Cabernet supplies dark-fruit structure, and Merlot rounds the centre, creating a red with the depth and balance needed alongside steak.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eThe wine was born from a meeting of minds and palates between the Braida team, Sommelier's Choice and the staff of a fine-dining steak restaurant group. Fermentation in stainless steel protects the fruit, followed by maturation in large oak vessels to soften the tannins and add understated savoury spice.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003ch4\u003eTasting notes\u003c\/h4\u003e\u003ch5\u003eAppearance\u003c\/h5\u003e\u003cp\u003eDeep ruby-purple with excellent clarity and youthful concentration.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003ch5\u003eNose\u003c\/h5\u003e\u003cp\u003eBlack cherry and plum meet cassis, blackberry, cedar and a restrained note of vanilla.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003ch5\u003ePalate\u003c\/h5\u003e\u003cp\u003eGenerous and polished, with red and black fruit carried by fresh acidity and fine, silky tannins. The blend has enough weight for grilled beef without becoming heavy, while cocoa, pepper and a touch of smoke shape the long, savoury finish.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003ch4\u003eFood pairing\u003c\/h4\u003e\u003cp\u003eCreated with steak in mind, it is particularly good with sirloin and peppercorn sauce, ribeye cooked over charcoal, or fillet with a red-wine jus. It also suits portobello mushrooms with blue cheese or a rich beef lasagne. Decant briefly and serve at around 17°C.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003ch4\u003eBackground story\u003c\/h4\u003e\u003cp\u003eThis is a genuinely collaborative Braida wine rather than a retrospective selection. Sommelier's Choice helped shape the brief with Braida and an experienced restaurant team, seeking the freshness, structure and generosity required to perform reliably at the table with high-quality beef.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eThe project grew from a relationship with the Bologna family spanning more than twenty years. It preserves Braida's hallmark Barbera vitality while applying the family's blending experience to a bespoke purpose, making Rosso di Braida distinctive both in origin and in the role it was designed to fulfil.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Braida di Giacomo Bologna","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":39299465936956,"sku":"GBROSSOBRAIDA23","price":21.6,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0036\/1984\/8252\/files\/braida-di-giacomo-bologna-rosso-di-braida-monferrato-rosso-doc-2023-0-standardised-600x960.png?v=1791378398"},{"product_id":"bricco-della-bigotta-barbera-dasti-docg-2008","title":"\"Bricco della Bigotta\" Barbera d’Asti DOCG 2008","description":"\u003ch4\u003eVineyard and winemaking\u003c\/h4\u003e\u003cp\u003eThe grapes for Bricco della Bigotta come from Braida's estate vineyard in Castelnuovo Calcea, planted entirely to Barbera. Mature vines on a west-facing slope, rooted in substantial soils containing sand and limestone, produce fruit with depth, perfume and the bright acidity essential to the wine's balance.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eThe must remains in contact with the skins through an extended maceration before the wine spends 15 months in barriques and another year refining in bottle. The 2008 has developed considerable secondary complexity; stand the bottle upright in advance and decant only as its condition on opening suggests.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003ch4\u003eTasting notes\u003c\/h4\u003e\u003ch5\u003eAppearance\u003c\/h5\u003e\u003cp\u003eConcentrated garnet-red with a clear, softly tawny edge.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003ch5\u003eNose\u003c\/h5\u003e\u003cp\u003eBlack cherry, damson and dried violet open into liquorice root, mocha, cigar box and a touch of balsamic herb.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003ch5\u003ePalate\u003c\/h5\u003e\u003cp\u003eRich and rounded, with cherry compote and dark plum lifted by a vivid seam of acidity. Fine-grained tannins and integrated oak bring shape, while coffee, pepper and earthy notes add mature complexity. The finish remains energetic, savoury and long.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003ch4\u003eFood pairing\u003c\/h4\u003e\u003cp\u003eA compelling match for roast grouse with bread sauce, glazed beef cheek, porcini pappardelle, or a mature pecorino. Serve at 16–17°C and let the wine gather expression in the glass rather than exposing it immediately to prolonged aeration.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003ch4\u003eBackground story\u003c\/h4\u003e\u003cp\u003eBricco della Bigotta carries the nickname of a notably pious former neighbour of the vineyard. The Bologna family transformed that local story into a wine of seriousness and warmth, combining Barbera's unmistakable vitality with concentrated fruit and disciplined oak maturation.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eBraida's work was central to Barbera's rise from everyday regional wine to a variety capable of cellar-worthy crus. Sommelier's Choice has collaborated with the family for more than two decades, and the 2008 offers a mature perspective on one of the estate's most individual sites.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Braida di Giacomo Bologna","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":54968875909502,"sku":"BIGOTTA08","price":66.05,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0036\/1984\/8252\/files\/braida-di-giacomo-bologna-bricco-della-bigotta-barbera-d-asti-docg-2008-600x960.png?v=1791384806"}],"url":"https:\/\/sommelierschoice.co.uk\/collections\/braida-di-giacomo-bologna.oembed","provider":"Sommelier's Choice","version":"1.0","type":"link"}