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.
Braida di Giacomo Bologna Asso di Fiori Chardonnay Langhe DOC 2018
Grapes: 100% Chardonnay
Background:
The name Asso di Fiori translates to "Ace of Flowers", symbolizing the top-tier quality of this Chardonnay within Braida’s portfolio. It represents the pinnacle of purity, using only the finest 'free-run' must from a gentle pressing, known as the "flower of the must." This late-harvest Chardonnay from the Serra dei Fiori estate is produced with meticulous care, offering a true expression of the terroir and the family’s winemaking philosophy.
Grapes and Vineyard:
Crafted from late-harvested Chardonnay grapes grown in the Serra dei Fiori vineyard in Trezzo Tinella, the grapes are carefully selected to ensure only the best fruit is used. This region's unique climate, influenced by its proximity to the hills of Piedmont, ensures the grapes achieve excellent ripeness, balancing richness with freshness.
Winemaking:
After a soft pressing of the grapes to extract only the finest must, fermentation takes place in oak barrels. The wine is aged in oak for 8 months, allowing it to develop its complex character, followed by an additional 8 months of bottle aging to enhance its structure and balance.
Sight:
Bright yellow with greenish reflections, indicating both freshness and vibrancy.
Nose:
An enticing bouquet of ripe fruits such as banana and melon, along with sweet spices, vanilla, and a delicate hint of smokiness imparted by the oak aging.
Palate:
Opulent and generous on the palate, this wine is rich yet balanced, offering flavours of ripe tropical fruits and sweet spices, layered with buttery, nutty notes from the oak. A creamy texture complements its freshness, leading to a sophisticated, long finish.
Food Match:
A perfect companion to appetizers, fish dishes, white meats, and fried foods. The wine’s richness also allows it to pair beautifully with dishes featuring creamy or buttery sauces.
Scores:
- 91 points from James Suckling,
- 93 points from Wine Enthusiast
More from Braida di Giacomo Bologna
