Barbera d'Alba
DOC
2017
100% Barbera
Climate
The 2017 vintage in Alba will be remembered for hot summer weather and scarce rainfall. Winter was mild with little snowfall while the first part of spring brought some rain and higher than average temperatures prompting early vine development. As the month of April drew to a close, temperatures suddenly plummeted with some late spring frost that mostly affected vineyards located at the bottom of the valley and along the hillsides. The month of May marked the beginning of a long period of favorable weather leading to high temperatures during the summer months. Several isolated rainstorms in August replenished groundwater reserves in the soil, critical for guaranteeing optimal vine growth and development. As of the first week in September, temperatures dropped considerably with significant temperature fluctuations between day and night. This vintage was marked by lower yields but excellent quality. Harvesting operations of Barbera grapes began on September 4th and was completed on September 15th.
Harvest and Vinification
The grapes were perfectly healthy with excellent balance in all components; sugar levels, acidity and phenolic compounds. The grapes were destemmed and crushed. Maceration on the skins lasted 5 to 7 days at a temperature of 28-30 °C (82-86 °F). Malolactic fermentation was completed mid December. The different lots from different vineyard parcels were blended in spring and then bottled.
Historical Data
A traditional Barbera, fresh and easy to drink, from vineyards whose soils are composed of clay and sand. A wine with great balance enriched by short-term aging in oak barrels.
Tasting Notes
Prunotto’s Barbera d’Alba is ruby red with purple highlights. Grapey on the nose with fresh floral aromas of roses that blend with hints of ripe fruit and spicy notes. The palate is full and balanced.