La Court Nizza Riserva DOCG 2021
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Italy / Piedmont
The La Court estate produces exceptional-quality Barbera. It has excellent soils of magnesium-rich calcareous marl and a beneficial south-southwest exposure. Planted in 1976, this jewel of vineyard land receives the fastidious attention of the Chiarlo family so that its old vines produce extraordinary grapes. Vines are thinned of excess bunches at the end of summer, leaving 5-6 bunches per vine. Following fermentation in large oak casks, the wine is aged in oak (50% in casks, 50% in large barrels) for a minimum of 12 months followed by 18 months in bottle.
Harvest Note
The 2021 vintage began with rain and snow that piled up to 24 inches among the vineyards. March was dry with temperatures above average that prompted an early start of vegetation. Spring brought previous rainfall and below average temperatures that lasted until the end of May slowed the development of the vines. June was the beginning of a long, hot, and dry summer that lasted until a mild September. Harvest was at the usual time, yielding healthy and perfectly ripe grapes characterized by outstanding balance.
Tasting Note
Purple with ruby hues, this intense yet elegant wine offers notes of black cherry, cocoa, and coffee. A velvety wine with a long, silky finish
Technical Data
GRAPES: Barbera (100%)
APPELLATION: Nizza DOCG Riserva
PH: 3.58
ACIDITY: 6.2
ABV: 14.5%
AGING: Aged for a minimum of two and a half years - 12 months in oak barrels
Unique Selling Points
- A classic single vineyard Barbera from choice terroir
- Nizza DOCG - Previously part of Barbera d'Asti DOCG, elevated to its own DOCG in 2014
- Very low yield, hand harvested with summer thinning of excess bunches
- One of a few top Barbera in terms of complexity, aging potential, and finesse
“We believe in the perfection of the grapes in the vineyard: terroir, experience, timeliness, studied interventions vine by vine.”
Stefano 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.
