Barbera Appassimento DOC, Riva Leone

The Riva Leone range is produced by Ricossa, a highly regarded producer that reflect the unique, unmistakable excellence and terroir of the noble Piedmont region. This Barbera is grown on limestone and clay soils, typical of the Monferrato vineyards. As an 'Appassimento', Ricossa are employing a somewhat pioneering technique and have been the first to vinify such a traditional classic Barbera in this manner to great effect! The methodology reflects another true northern Italian great, Amarone, as the grapes are left to dry in a ventilated, temperature-controlled room for about 5-6 weeks, in which the gradual dehydration of the berries takes place. This is followed by fermentation in stainless steel at 26-30°C for about 2 weeks. This very expressive wine is filled with berries, jam, violet, vanilla, figs and almonds. The mouthfeel is elegant, harmonious although full-bodied with added complexity developing over the years.