'Pure expression of the Barbera vine in all its power and elegance'. This is how its creators describe the Barbera d'Alba DOC Superiore 'Rocche dei Frisu', proposed here by Abrigo Giovanni. After all, we are right in the heart of Barbera production, and Rocche dei Friusu comes from a selection of the estate's best vines. Produced only in the best vintages, it is a deep and lively wine. We are located in the surroundings of Diano d'Alba, where the soils are clayey, moderately calcareous, with sand contents that vary according to the position. Here, between 360 and 230 metres above sea level, Barbera ripens between the end of September and the beginning of October. Harvesting is done by hand, in baskets, to preserve its integrity, and rapid transfer to the cellar. We start with destemming and alcoholic fermentation, at a controlled temperature in steel tanks, with a maceration period of 9/12 days. At the end of the transformation and subsequent clarification processes, the wine passes into French oak barrels of different capacities for a period of about six months. This is followed by finishing in cement vats, where the wine rests for another year before bottling. A further six months of waiting are required and then, finally, the wine is ready to reach the shelves and be marketed. Intense purple red. Light spicy and red fruit notes appear on the nose, followed by aromas of cherries in spirit. In the mouth, the important structure is well supported by great acidity that gives the wine freshness, balance and persistence. Perfect with all savoury dishes, such as cured meats, main courses of pork, veal cheek and mature cheeses.