Vineyards and winemaking
Montebruna 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.
The 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.
Tasting notes
Appearance
Mature garnet with brick and tawny highlights at the rim.
Nose
Dried cherry, blackcurrant and plum are layered with tobacco leaf, autumn herbs, cocoa and a quiet note of vanilla.
Palate
Rounded 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.
Food pairing
A 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.
Background story
Montebruna 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.
The 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.
