Barbera d'Alba Superiore "Palma" 2018

750ml

Overview

Fabio Gea Barbera d'Alba Superiore "Palma" 2018 is a distinguished expression of Barbera from the Langhe region in Piemonte, Italy. Crafted by the artisanal winemaker Fabio Gea, this wine reflects the unique terroir of the region with a focus on organic farming and minimal intervention winemaking. The "Palma" label is a tribute to the local traditions and the high quality of Barbera when grown in the rich soils of Langhe. With its deep flavors, balanced acidity, and rich fruit profile, this wine is an exceptional example of what Barbera can achieve at its finest.

Vinification and Aging

• Fermentation: The Barbera grapes were hand-harvested and fermented with wild yeasts in stainless steel tanks. This method preserves the wine’s natural expression, allowing the unique characteristics of the fruit and terroir to come through.
• Aging: After fermentation, the wine was aged for 12 months in a combination of large oak barrels and stainless steel. The oak imparts subtle notes of spice and texture, while the stainless steel helps maintain the freshness and bright fruit character of the wine.
• Bottling: The wine was bottled without fining or filtration to retain its purity and natural qualities, allowing it to evolve in the bottle over time.

Tasting Notes

• Appearance: The wine showcases a deep, ruby-red color with hints of garnet at the edges, indicating its intensity and youthfulness.
• Aroma: On the nose, the wine opens with vibrant aromas of ripe blackberries, cherries, and plum, complemented by notes of violet, herbs, and a hint of earthy complexity. Subtle nuances of oak and spices like cinnamon and clove add depth and dimension.
• Palate: The palate is full-bodied with firm yet refined tannins, balanced by fresh acidity. Flavors of dark fruit, such as black cherry and blackberry, are complemented by herbal, earthy, and spicy nuances. The finish is long and persistent, with a savory quality that lingers.

Food Pairing

This Barbera d'Alba Superiore is a versatile wine that pairs well with a variety of dishes. It complements rich meats like roasted pork, beef, or lamb, as well as hearty pasta dishes with tomato-based sauces. It also works well with aged cheeses like Pecorino and Grana Padano, making it an excellent choice for a wide range of Italian cuisine.

Serving Recommendations

• Serving Temperature: Serve at 16–18°C (61–64°F) to fully express the wine’s aromas and flavors.
• Decanting: Decanting is optional, but it can help soften the tannins and allow the wine to open up, especially if consumed in its youth.

Aging Potential

Barbera d'Alba Superiore "Palma" 2018 has a moderate to long aging potential. It will evolve beautifully over the next 5 to 8 years, with its fruit becoming more integrated and its complexity increasing. This wine is best enjoyed from 2023 to 2030.