"Bricco della Bigotta" Barbera d’Asti DOCG 2008

The creation of Bricco della Bigotta

The Bricco della Bigotta vineyard, located near Rocchetta Tanaro, is named after a devout woman, affectionately known as "Bigotta," who lived nearby. This vineyard benefits from unique clay and sand soils, which help to create wines of depth and complexity, reflecting Barbera at its best. Giacomo Bologna's pioneering approach to ageing Barbera in small oak barrels laid the foundation for the richness and longevity of this wine.

Vineyard

100% Barbera grapes are cultivated in the Bricco della Bigotta vineyard, near Rocchetta Tanaro. The vineyard's unique clay and sand soils (medio impasto) contribute to the wine's depth and complexity, exemplifying Barbera at its finest. The microclimate and terroir of the area further enhance the wine's structure and character.

Winemaking

The 2008 vintage underwent extended maceration to extract its rich flavours and deep ruby hue. Aged for 18 months in French oak barriques, a technique pioneered by the Bologna family, the wine gains structure and longevity while maintaining the vibrant character of Barbera.

Appearance

Deep ruby red with garnet reflections, indicating its graceful ageing.

Nose

Intense aromas of black cherries and dark berries, complemented by notes of vanilla, cocoa, and a hint of spice from the oak ageing.

Palate

Full-bodied and harmonious, the palate reveals rich ripe plum and blackberry flavours, balanced by fresh acidity and well-integrated tannins. The finish is long, with lingering notes of dark chocolate and a touch of smokiness.

Food pairing

This wine pairs excellently with hearty meat dishes, such as braised beef or lamb, game, and aged cheeses like Pecorino or Taleggio

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 one of the finest wines of Barbera and 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.