Bricco dei Guazzi , Italy
Bricco dei Guazzi Albarossa : Grapes 100% Albarossa Awarded Bibenda 5 Grapes
Albarossa: A cross between the Nebbiolo and Barbera grapes, this grape variety was established in order to blend the best characteristics of these two varieties. Hand harvested grapes, crushed and destemmed, left to macerate in contact with the musts at temperatures between 25°C and 28°C for a week in large steel vats. Frequent pumping over allows for optimal extraction of the colour and a good body. Malolactic fermentation is carried out, then the wine is placed in barrique barrels for 6 months, and after that in barrels of 30 hectolitres for a further 12 months. A bottle aging process of at least 4 months follows. A deep, almost impenetrable, ruby red wine. Warm and embracing to the nose with intense aromas of blueberry and other red berries, mixed with aromas of roasted coffee and leather following through on the palate which is rounded and full-bodied, a great explosion of fruit bolstered by a tannic profile which yields an outstanding wine.