Fontanafredda ‘Raimonda’ Barbera d’Alba DOC 2021
Grape Varietal: 100% Barbera
Growing Region: Hills of Alba - Langhe region, Piedmont - Italy
Technical Director / Winemaker: Giorgio Lavagna
Last year in June 2023, I had the pleasure to spend some quality time with Giorgio and the team at the winery in Alba. The Fontanafredda winery was founded in 1858, and since this time has been a passionate voice for the quality and character of this dynamic wine region. Along with embracing sustainable long-term farming practices in the Langhe region of Piedmont. Lead by the visionary entrepreneur Oscar Farinetti, Fontanafredda has a dynamic range of wines that look to showcase the depth and diversity of the Langhe region, produced from expressive native grapes.
For this wine, fermentation took place in stainless steel tanks, with regularly pumping over of the cap. Maceration went for 7-8 days at a temperature of 27-30 °C, followed by a short period of malolactic fermentation. Then in January, part of the wines was then matured in large, French and Slavonian oak casks, while the remaining parcel placed into smaller oak barrels (225 & 300 litres) - a mix of medium-toasted French and American oak for about 12 months. Then after careful tasting, the two parts were blended prior to bottling.
★ In the glass you are met by a rich cherry jam colour. On the vibrant nose you have classic wild floral aromas, along with dark cherries, dried herbs and vanilla spice. The medium weight palate has a fully engaging personality, showcasing luscious dark cherries and fleshy ripe plums. These are delivered with silky tannins, a smooth texture and this vintage has a controlled level of varietal acidity. The wine is beautifully balanced and has a velvet dry finish.
This 2021 Fontanafredda ‘Raimonda’ Barbera d’Alba DOC has 14.5% Alc./vol. Classic Dry Style. Decant for 20-30 minutes and serve in an appropriately shaped red wine glass at 16°- 18°C. - *NZ$42.99
CELLARING POTENTIAL: *(Article Posted 7/9/24)
With respectful decanting drinking perfectly now: plus, will age nicely for another 3 - 4 years.
FOOD PAIRING SUGGESTIONS:
Perfect wine pairing with slow roasted pork, lamb cutlets, veal scalloppini with mushrooms, classic pizzas, mushroom and truffle pasta dishes with herb sauce, mixed kebabs, earthy vegetarian cuisine and hard cheeses - enjoy.
