"Montestefano" Barbaresco Riserva DOCG 2020

It combines elegance, structure and a marked capacity for ageing. We are talking about the Barbaresco Riserva DOCG Montestefano from Cantina Produttori del Barbaresco, a wine that authentically and complexly expresses its territory. It is produced in the heart of the Barbaresco hills, an area renowned for the production of very high quality wines. The Montestefano vineyard, located between 200 and 400 metres above sea level, is one of the most famous Crus in the area. The soil, with a clayey and limestone-rich base, gives the wine structure, minerality and a marked capacity for ageing. The name ‘Montestefano’ comes from the presence of a small chapel dedicated to Santo Stefano (Saint Stephen), located near the vineyard. This Cru is known for producing powerful yet elegant wines that perfectly reflect the character of the territory. As per the regulations, it is produced 100% with Nebbiolo grapes. After harvesting by hand, the grapes are fermented in steel tanks at a controlled temperature, with maceration on the skins to extract colour and tannins. This is followed by malolactic fermentation, which softens the acidity of the wine, and ageing in oak barrels for at least 36 months, followed by a further 6 months of rest in the bottle. Montestefano is ‘designed’ to mature well and for a long time. But even when young it shows a fascinating character. Hints of red fruit, such as cherry and raspberry, which evolve towards floral notes of violet, dried flowers and spices, such as pepper and liquorice. With ageing, the bouquet becomes even richer, with aromas of tobacco, leather and undergrowth. The taste is structured and full-bodied, with present but well-integrated tannins, and a long and elegant finish.