The donkeys drawn on the label of this Barbera d'Asti DOCG represent the unmistakable signature of Cascina Valle Asinari. From vineyards in the heart of the province of Asti, in Marzano Oliveto, this red wine comes from an ancient process that involves the intervention of only native yeasts that are activated in cement tanks. After vinification, the wine then ages slowly in a large 50 year old Slavonian barrel until it reaches the right complexity. The result is a red wine with character, distinguished by a ruby colour with purple highlights. The nose is decidedly fruity, with balsamic notes, mentholated and spicy hints. In the mouth, however, it shows it has the makings of a great wine. Well structured, it has soft tannins and that hint of acidity that makes it even more enjoyable. A wine to be uncorked when the table includes a menu based on red meats, cooked slowly and for a long time. Stewed and braised meats, perhaps combined with a nice rough polenta, are perfect for it!