Despite several snow events and very limited rainfall, winter 2019 saw temperatures that were higher than seasonal averages prompting early vine growth especially in those vineyards with the most favorable sunlight exposure. The month of April until the end of May brought cold temperatures and rain showers that affected flowering, reducing the number of berries per cluster resulting in lower yields. June delivered a hot, dry summer which was followed by rain during the last half of July. Optimal day/night temperature swings in August and frequent cluster thinning in the vineyards preserved whole, healthy fruit. September began with a period of brief yet intense rainstorms that gave way to higher temperatures and clear sunny weather until mid-October. This wasn’t an easy vintage, with an extended harvest window and limited yields however, the grapes were of impeccable quality. Harvesting operations began on October 13th and were concluded on October 19th.
Carefully selected grapes were brought to the cellar, destemmed and crushed. Maceration on the skins lasted for a period of approximately 8 days at a temperature that did not exceed 30 °C (86 °F). Malolactic fermentation was completed before the end of winter. Barbaresco was aged in oak barrels of varying capacities for approximately one year.
Prunotto’s Barbaresco is produced from vineyards in Treiso and Neive in the Barbaresco area, it’s the elegant expression of Nebbiolo. An aristocratic wine yet accessible and pleasant. It is aged in large oak barrels of varying capacities to enhance balance and softness on the palate.
Barbaresco 2020 is an intense garnet red color. The nose is fragrant with well-defined aromas accented by hints of red fruit and spices. The palate has character, velvety tannins and is exceptionally pleasant to drink. It closes with a long finish.
Barbaresco's history goes back to 1894 when Domizio Cavazza, headmaster of the Royal Enological School of Alba, dedicated his passions and efforts to crafting this wine. Production regulations and territorial criteria were established with DOC status in 1966 and DOCG status in 1980 that includes the cities of Barbaresco, Treiso, Neive and Alba.