Brachetto d’Acqui DOCG 2022 (Half bottle)

The origin of Brachetto d'Acqui

Brachetto d'Acqui has a storied past, first mentioned during the Roman Empire in reference to the "vinum acquense" (wine of Acqui Terme), beloved by the patricians of Gallia Cisalpina. This legendary wine was said to have aphrodisiac powers, with historical figures like Julius Caesar and Marcus Antonius sending skins filled with this wine to Cleopatra’s court. Cleopatra herself was known to offer this sweet, aromatic wine to her admirers, inspiring passion. Today, Brachetto retains its reputation as a sensual and beguiling wine, steeped in romance and intrigue.

Winemaking

The grapes for the Brachetto d’Acqui are hand-harvested to preserve their delicate aromas and flavors. After pressing, the must undergoes a cool fermentation in temperature-controlled stainless steel tanks to maintain the wine’s fresh fruit character. The fermentation is stopped early to retain natural sweetness, and the wine undergoes secondary fermentation to achieve its frizzante (semi-sparkling) quality. This careful process preserves the balance of natural acidity and sweetness, allowing the wine to showcase its characteristic freshness and vibrancy.

Appearance

This semi-sparkling (frizzante) sweet red wine shines a bright ruby red in the glass, its bubbles adding a festive allure.

Nose

The youthful and exuberant nose bursts with aromas of wild strawberry, raspberry, and grape, complemented by delicate floral notes of violet and rose. The aromatic profile is fresh and lively, with a seductive fruity charm.

Palate

On the palate, the Brachetto is light and elegant, with a crisp, refined acidity that balances the natural sweetness. Red fruit flavours, especially wild strawberries and raspberries, dominate, while subtle mineral notes and a fine, persistent fizz lend complexity and freshness. Hints of rose petal and violet linger in the background, leading to a pure, fresh, and lingering finish.

Food Pairing

This Brachetto is a perfect match for dark chocolate and sweet spice desserts. Its light, sweet, and bubbly nature also makes it a wonderful companion for fresh berries or a romantic dessert spread. The wine's refined sweetness and fruity elegance make it ideal for intimate moments and celebratory occasions.

Accolades

91 points from Falstaff

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.