"Montebruna" Barbera d’Asti DOCG 2011 (Half bottle)

The Creation of Montebruna

Montebruna is more than just a vineyard—it's the realisation of Giacomo Bologna’s dream to reunite historic land in Rocchetta Tanaro. Over seven years, his son Giuseppe painstakingly pieced together parcels of land once owned by the Marchesi Incisa della Rocchetta family. The vineyard takes its name from the Montebruna cottage, a symbol of this journey. This significant accomplishment reflects Bologna’s vision of crafting a Barbera that is both elegant and deeply expressive of its terroir.

Vineyards & winemaking

The vineyard’s sand and clay soils contribute to the wine’s intense aroma and structure. The wine is aged in large Slavonian oak barrels (2,000–5,500L), ensuring it maintains Barbera’s vibrant freshness.

Appearance

Deep ruby red with garnet hues, reflecting its maturity.

Nose

The 2011 vintage presents a bouquet of ripe cherries, black currant, and plum, alongside secondary notes of tobacco, dried herbs, and a touch of vanilla from oak aging. Subtle dark chocolate and earthy tones emerge as the wine opens.

Palate

This vintage has evolved into a rich, harmonious wine, with juicy black fruits balanced by bright acidity and smooth, integrated tannins. Dark berries, chocolate, and spice add complexity, with a long, smoky finish revealing earthy and savoury elements.

Food pairing

Montebruna pairs well with pasta dishes, roast meats, stews, grilled vegetables, aged cheeses, and charcuterie.

Scores

91 points from Wine Spectator.

Aging potential

The 2011 vintage is drinking beautifully now and will continue to develop until 2025, revealing further complexity while retaining its fruit-driven core.

Background story

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.