Vineyards and winemaking
Il 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.
The 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.
Tasting notes
Appearance
Deep garnet with ruby depth at the centre and a mature brick-red rim.
Nose
Blackberry, dried cherry and plum unfold into walnut, cedar, black pepper and a gentle smoky note.
Palate
Full 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.
Food pairing
Bring 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.
Background story
In 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.
Giacomo 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.
