"Montebruna" Barbera d’Asti DOCG 2020

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 "Montebruna" Barbera d’Asti DOCG 2020
Grapes: 100% Barbera
ABV: 15%

Vineyards & History:
Montebruna is more than just a vineyard—it's the realisation of one of Giacomo Bologna’s greatest dreams. Located in Rocchetta Tanaro, within the historic Monferrato Astigiano region, this vineyard is a testament to Giacomo’s vision, realised by his son Giuseppe Bologna. The land was once owned by the noble Marchesi Incisa della Rocchetta family and had been divided over time among various growers. Over the course of seven years, Giuseppe managed to acquire the majority of this distinctive vineyard, named after the Montebruna cottage, once home to the Marchesi family.

The vineyard's soils are composed of equal parts sand and clay (known locally as impasto misto), which lend themselves to the creation of Barbera wines with intense perfume and structure. The traditional production method, including aging in large Slavonian oak barrels (2,000–5,500L), respects the essence of the land and the variety, ensuring that Montebruna remains a faithful representation of this historic site.

Winemaking:
The wine is aged in large Slavonian oak barrels, a practice chosen to enhance Barbera’s natural freshness and acidity while adding subtle complexity and structure. This traditional approach allows Montebruna to capture the essence of both the vineyard’s terroir and the winemaking heritage of the Bologna family.

Appearance:
Deep ruby red with purple hues, signalling both its youth and richness.

Nose:
Montebruna 2020 offers an expressive and youthful bouquet, dominated by sour cherry, black currant, and elderberry. Hints of black pepper, vanilla, and cinnamon add spice, while soft floral notes of violet provide elegance. As the wine opens, more complex aromas of tobacco, leather, and dried herbs emerge, reflecting its potential for aging.

Palate:
The palate is rustic yet refined, showcasing flavours of juicy black fruits such as sour cherries and dark berries. There is a clear balance between ripe fruit, smoky undertones, and a hint of dark chocolate, all framed by Barbera's signature lively acidity. The low tannins are ripe and well-integrated, contributing to a silky mouthfeel, while the wine’s finish is long and satisfying, with lingering flavours of sweet spice.

Food Pairing:
Montebruna’s versatility shines in pairings with pasta dishes, roast meats, and stews. It also pairs wonderfully with charcuterie, grilled vegetables, and aged cheeses like Pecorino or Taleggio, complementing its vibrant acidity and soft tannins.

Scores:

• 93 points from Falstaff
• 92 points from Vinous (Antonio Galloni)
• 92 points from Wine Enthusiast
• 91 points from Wine Advocate
• 91 points from James Suckling

Aging Potential:
While Montebruna 2020 is drinking beautifully now, it will continue to evolve gracefully over the next 5-7 years, gaining further complexity, with more savoury and earthy notes emerging, while still retaining its vibrant fruit and acidity.