"Ai Suma" Barbera d’Asti DOCG 2016

Braida, established by the late Giacomo Bologna, is synonymous with Barbera at its very best. Inspired by the great French wine regions he visited, notably Burgundy, Giacomo believed that Barbera could rival the world's finest wines. In 1961, he produced his first lightly effervescent Barbera. Continuing his quality journey through experimental vineyard plantings, reduced yields, and late harvesting, he caused a stir by being the first to age Barbera in small oak barrels in 1982, the original “Super Barbera”.

This led to the creation of the renowned crus: Uccellone, Bricco della Bigotta, and Ai Suma. Success and recognition were not achieved overnight, but Giacomo's sustained persistence led to Bricco dell’Uccellone being regarded as not only one of the finest wines of Barbera but one of the finest red wines of Italy.

Today, his daughter Raffaella manages the winery, and his son Giuseppe oversees
growing and production, with their spouses’ handling exports and administration.
This family operation values the environment, tradition, and heartfelt passion, resulting in wines that evoke deep emotions. Their uncompromising pursuit of quality, devotion to the terroir, innovation and sustainability are matched by their genuine conviviality and warmth of welcome. We have had the absolute pleasure of collaborating with them for over 20 years.

Braida di Giacomo Bologna Ai Suma Barbera d'Asti DOCG 2016

Background:
The creation of Ai Suma was a pure coincidence, a result of several factors aligning unexpectedly. In 1989, Giacomo Bologna, founder of Braida, delayed the harvest of one particular vineyard to wait for his Georgian friends, whom he had met on a research trip with wine writer Luigi Veronelli. Due to travel issues, they arrived two weeks late. During that time, the weather remained perfect, allowing the grapes to ripen beyond the usual harvest date. When finally harvested, the grapes had dried slightly on the vine, resulting in an incredibly rich, concentrated wine. This unplanned delay led to the birth of Ai Suma, which means “Here we are” in the local dialect, symbolizing the ultimate achievement of the Bologna family’s efforts. Since then, Ai Suma has only been produced in exceptional vintages, when nature provides the perfect conditions for late-harvest Barbera.

Grapes and Vineyard:
Made from late-harvested 100% Barbera grapes grown in estate-owned vineyards in Rocchetta Tanaro. The late harvest concentrates the fruit, creating a bold, complex wine that showcases the full potential of Barbera.

Winemaking:
Fermentation includes 20 days of temperature-controlled maceration on the skins to extract colour and flavour. The wine is aged for 15 months in oak casks, followed by an additional year of bottle aging. This process contributes to its powerful structure, elegance, and depth.

Sight:
Deep ruby red with garnet highlights.

Nose:
The bouquet is pronounced and complex, with aromas of blackberries, prunes, and dried fruits, complemented by liquorice, mocha, and sweet oak, with underlying balsamic notes.

Palate:
On the palate, Ai Suma is both opulent and refined, offering layers of flavour that evolve as you sip. Initially, there’s an off-dry sensation, quickly balanced by a lively acidity that brightens the rich, concentrated fruit. Bramble and sour cherry jam dominate, followed by deeper notes of mocha, liquorice, and dark chocolate, reminiscent of dried fruits. The wine’s weight is significant, giving it warmth and body, yet it remains beguilingly smooth, with tannins that are ripe, firm, and well-integrated, providing structure without overpowering. The finish is long and complex, lingering with fresh acidity and hints of tar, leather, and roasted coffee. This powerful yet elegant wine continues to evolve in the glass, making every taste a new experience.

Food Match:
Ideal with roasts, rich stews, and mature cheeses. It also pairs beautifully with hearty pasta dishes and sauces that can stand up to its bold flavours.

Scores:

• 95 points from DoctorWine 
• 92 points from Wine Enthusiast