"Ai Suma" Barbera d’Asti DOCG 2016

The creation of Ai Suma

The creation of Ai Suma was a pure coincidence, a result of several factors aligning unexpectedly. In 1989, Giacomo Bologna delayed the harvest of one particular vineyard, waiting for Georgian friends. The extended ripening resulted in grapes drying slightly on the vine, creating an incredibly rich wine. The name "Ai Suma," meaning “Here we are” in the local dialect, reflects the ultimate achievement of the Bologna family's efforts. It is only produced in exceptional vintages with perfect conditions for late-harvest Barbera.

Grapes and vineyard

Made from late-harvested 100% Barbera grapes grown in estate-owned vineyards in Rocchetta Tanaro. The late harvest enhances the fruit’s concentration, yielding a bold, complex wine that demonstrates the full potential of Barbera.

Winemaking

Fermentation includes 20 days of temperature-controlled maceration on the skins to extract both colour and flavour. The wine is aged for 15 months in oak casks, followed by an additional year of bottle aging, contributing to its powerful structure, elegance, and depth.

Appearance

Deep ruby red with garnet highlights.

Nose

The bouquet is pronounced and complex, offering aromas of blackberries, prunes, and dried fruits, alongside notes of liquorice, mocha, and sweet oak, with subtle balsamic undertones.

Palate

Opulent and refined, the wine opens with a sensation of rich, concentrated fruit, balanced by vibrant acidity. Layers of bramble, sour cherry jam, and deeper flavours of mocha, liquorice, and dark chocolate emerge, with a long finish showcasing tar, leather, and roasted coffee. The ripe tannins provide structure without overpowering the smooth texture.

Food pairing

Perfect with roasts, rich stews, and mature cheeses. Also pairs well with hearty pasta dishes and sauces that complement its bold flavours.

Accolades

95 points from DoctorWine
92 points from Wine Enthusiast

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.