'Barla' Case Corini 2017

'Barla' is Case Corini's interpretation of the oldest of the family-owned vineyards. Expressing the local grape par excellence, this red wine is made through the philosophy of respect for the natural environment and the ethos of sustainability condensed in the proven Metodo Corino.

"Barla" identifies the historic parcel of Case Corini, planted as far back as 1928 with a prevalence of different biotypes of what is the emblematic variety of the area, cultivated with the traditional and ancient system of the alberello (small tree) and for a part with the more modern espalier. It covers about 2 hectares in the municipality of Mongardino d'Asti, at an altitude of around 230 metres above the gentle slopes that outline the landscape between the Langhe and Monferrato and faces southeast. The soil is characterised by a marly matrix with widespread Asti sands, worked with light mechanical means in order to preserve its integrity and avoid excessive compaction. Operations along the rows are instead carried out manually, and treatments are reduced to the use, when necessary, of copper and sulphur. Harvesting involves extremely limited yields, and the grapes arrive in the cellar in small crates. The bunches are destemmed and vinified in wooden barrels: spontaneous alcoholic fermentation is prolonged, at the same time as maceration on the skins, for up to 9 weeks, interspersed with periodic manual punching-down. No clarification, filtering or addition of sulphur dioxide is carried out.

"Case Corini's 'Barla' is an intense garnet red colour with striking ruby reflections. The impact of the fruity aromas, which focus on cherry, blueberry and plum, then opens up to a floral array of persuasive rose petals, fading into warm spicy notes of nutmeg. The sip is snappy and tasty, enlivened by a crisp freshness blended harmoniously with a complex structure that does not lack a soft part and a hint of tannic texture. A red of great class and territoriality to accompany risotto with quail rather than stewed meat with polenta.