"Bricco della Bigotta" Barbera d’Asti DOCG 2005

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 aging Barbera in small oak barrels laid the foundation for the richness and longevity of this wine.

Grapes and vineyard

100% Barbera grapes are grown in the Bricco della Bigotta vineyard, which is characterised by its typical clay and sand soils (medio impasto). The microclimate and terroir of the area contribute to the wine's structure and depth.

Winemaking

The 2005 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, showing signs of graceful aging.

Nose

Intense aromas of black cherries and dark plums, complemented by earthy notes of tar and smoke. As it opens up, the wine reveals layers of licorice, tobacco, and dried herbs.

Palate

Full-bodied with rich dark fruit flavours, especially black cherry and plum, balanced by bright acidity. The tannins are firm but well-integrated, offering structure alongside notes of dark chocolate, leather, and a lingering smoky finish. The wine develops savoury and earthy characteristics as it breathes.

Food pairing

Ideal with braised lamb, osso buco, or wild boar stew. It also pairs beautifully with roasted game and aged cheeses like Pecorino or Taleggio.

Accolades

90 points from The Wine Advocate (Robert Parker)

Aging Potential

The 2005 Bricco della Bigotta is drinking beautifully now, but it will continue to evolve for the next 5-8 years, revealing more tertiary notes of leather, tobacco, and truffle.

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.