La Court Nizza Riserva DOCG 2015
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Italy / Piedmont
The 55-acre Tenuta Aluffi is one of the most prestigious estates in the southern part of Asti, near the town of Nizza Monferrato, a choice area for exceptional-quality Barbera. Within Aluffi is the La Court estate, with excellent soils of magnesium-rich calcareous marl and a beneficial south-southwest exposure. This jewel of vineyard land receives the fastidious attention of the Chiarlo family so that its old vines produce extraordinary grapes. Following fermentation in large oak casks, the wine is aged in oak for a minimum of 12 months.
Harvest Note
2015 was characterized by a long, dry summer. Fortunately, the mid-August rains arrived and helped to restore the water balance in the vines. By adequate thinning of the bunches the vines were able to channel all their energy to the few remaining clusters during the last month of ripening. Along with sunny days and fresh nights, this resulted in a splendid maturation. Harvest time took place during the customary period (September 18th-24th).
Tasting Note
Shows forward aromas of violets and spice before ripe flavors of black plum, dark chocolate and wild cherry. The wine has coiled, tangy acidity and a velvety texture.
Technical Data
GRAPES: 100% Barbera
APPELLATION: La Court Nizza Riserva DOCG
PH: 3.65
ACIDITY: 6.25 g/l
ABV: 14.2%
AGING: 1 year in barrique and 18 months in bottle
Unique Selling Points
- Produced only in excellent vintages with very limited quantities
- Vineyard plot is located at the top of the highest hill of the La Court estate
- Very low yield, hand harvested with summer thinning of excess bunches
- Nizza DOCG - Previously part of Barbera d'Asti DOCG, elevated to its own DOCG in 2014
- Label created by Ugo Nespolo, one of the greatest exponents of Italian Pop Art
“My aim has always been but one: quality.”
Michele Chiarlo, Winemaker
About the Grape
Barbera
With relatively high acidity with low tannins, Barbera’s tart red berry aromas and flavors have spicy, herbal notes. Styles range from light quaffers to dense, concentrated wines for aging.
