"Il Bacialé" Monferrato Rosso DOC 2010 (Magnum)

The creation of Il Bacialé

Named after the Piedmontese matchmaker, the "Bacialé" represents the union of Barbera’s vibrant character with the richness and depth of Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Cabernet Franc. Much like a well-matched couple, the blend perfectly harmonises these varietals to create a balanced yet complex wine. The diversity of the grapes contributes a unique expression, showcasing the strength of each.

Grapes and vineyard

60% Barbera, 40% Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Cabernet Franc. The grapes are harvested from Braida's vineyards in Castelnuovo Calcea, San Marzano Oliveto, and Rocchetta Tanaro, where the different soils and microclimates provide the perfect backdrop for each varietal to shine. The combination of clay and sandy soils enhances the wine’s complexity and depth.

Winemaking

Each grape variety is vinified separately. Barbera is aged in large Slavonian oak barrels to retain its vibrant acidity, while the French varietals are matured in small French barriques for 12 months. After blending, the wine undergoes an additional 12 months of aging in large casks before bottling, followed by a year in bottle to fully integrate the components.

Appearance

Deep ruby red with garnet hues, showcasing its richness and maturity.

Nose

Spicy aromas of blackberries, dark cherries, and plum evolve into black pepper, walnuts, and a light smoky character. The wine opens up as it breathes, offering complex layers of fruit and spice.

Palate

This full-bodied wine is rich with ripe black fruits like black cherry and blackberry. Smooth, ripe tannins give it structure, while Barbera’s lively acidity balances the richness of the French varietals. The long finish reveals notes of dark chocolate, spice, and cedar, with a touch of smoke that lingers.

Food pairing

Il Bacialé pairs beautifully with roast meats, game dishes such as venison, and rich pasta dishes. It also complements aged cheeses like Pecorino and Taleggio, enhancing their flavours with its complexity.

Accolades

89 points from Wine Spectator

Aging potential

This vintage is drinking beautifully now but will continue to develop over the next 5-7 years. Expect to see tertiary notes like leather and tobacco emerge, adding further complexity to the wine.

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.