The estate, made famous by the late Giacomo Bologna, is now managed by his wife and children. Brother and sister team Raffaella and Guiseppe, third generation oenologists, produce world-class wine from their father’s vineyards. Their flagship wine “Bricco dell’Uccellone” Barbera d’Asti has received worldwide acclaim, and is the wine that put Barbera on the map. I, personally, am a HUGE fan of the Bricco dell’Uccellone, I even carried a 2005 1.5-Liter magnum all the way to NYC to have Raffaella sign the bottle for me!
Their ‘baby barbera’, “Montebruna” is far from immature. The name Montebruna comes from the collection of vineyards that were purchased (and re-purchased) to reconstruct a historical vineyard site. The grapes are initially fermented for two weeks in stainless steel tanks, then aged for twelve months in a variety of large oaks vessels.
The wine that is bottle is a younger, fresher, fruit-forward wine than the big-boy Bricco dell’Uccellone. The 2010 Montebruna has just been added to the “Smart Buys” list from Wine Spectator for the second year in a row!
In regards to the Braida Barbera d’Asti Montebruna 2009, Wine Spectator said this:
“A structured and tightly knit red, this features black currant, blackberry and spice aromas and flavors, plus more tannins than typical of this varietal. Fine length adds refinement and dimension. Best from 2013 through 2018. 9,000 cases made. –BS”
The latest release of Wine Spectator Advance, which will be published in the March 31, 2013 issue included a review of the Braida Barbera d’Asti Montebruna 2010:
“A rich, vibrant red, offering tangy black cherry and blackberry flavors. Balanced and long, with a lightly smoky finish. Drink now through 2014. 10,000 cases made.—B.S.”
I’ve often found that by the time Wine Spectator reviews are printed, the wines they’re reviewing are already sold out. In the extreme case of the annual Top 100 List, trying to find the wines to buy in retail shops is very near impossible. Even as a wine lover with some great connections, nationwide availability isn’t really something that Wine Spectator considers when their reviews go to print.
Lucky for you (and me) the Braida Barbera d’Asti 2010 is indeed currently available in the New England region! I can’t speak for every market, but I know for sure that you can check your local wine shops for the latest vintage of Montebruna. Not only is it available, but the Montebruna 2010 can be found in both 750mL bottles as well as 1.5-Liter magnums. And let’s face it, few things are more impressive than a great wine in a big bottle!
If you have any trouble finding the Braida Montebruna at your local wine shop, feel free to let me know, I’ll help you track it down!
Eli
Bibo Ergo Sum
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