# Gheppio Barbera d'Alba (2020)

- **Producer:** Cantina Terre del Barolo
- **Colour:** red
- **Type:** still
- **Grapes:** Barbera
- **Region:** Piemonte, Italy
- **Style:** Classic
- **Alcohol:** 13.5%
- **Average price:** €15
- **Contains sulphites:** No
- **When to drink:** Now or Later
- **Serving temperature:** 15–17 °C
- **Aromas & flavours:** raspberry, red plum, red cherry, blueberry, malolactic

## About this wine

The Gheppio Barbera d'Alba 2020 is a red wine from the Alba sub-region of Piedmont, Italy, produced by Cantina Terre del Barolo. This cooperative winery, established in 1958, brings together over 300 winegrowers dedicated to producing wines exclusively from the Langhe region. The Barbera grape flourishes in the local chalky, limestone-rich clay soils, contributing to the wine's regional character. The 2020 vintage benefited from a warm and dry growing season, promoting fruit ripeness and concentration. Cantina Terre del Barolo was recognized as Italy's best cooperative in 2020.

## Interesting facts

- Cantina Terre del Barolo was named Italy's best cooperative in 2020.
- Barbera d'Alba DOC regulations allow up to 15% Nebbiolo, though this wine is 100% Barbera.
- The cooperative represents over 300 individual winegrowers.
- Barbera thrives in Piedmont's chalky, limestone-rich clay soils.

## Food pairing

The wine's pronounced acidity cuts through richer, fattier foods, cleansing the palate. Its bright fruit notes complement tomato-based sauces and roasted meats, while its softer tannins make it versatile with a range of proteins.

## Wine making process

The Gheppio Barbera d'Alba undergoes traditional red wine fermentation with controlled-temperature maceration for about 20 days, typically in steel tanks. Malolactic fermentation is a part of the process. Aging can occur in stainless steel tanks or involve a period of 12 months in oak casks followed by bottle aging, depending on the specific wine. The grapes are hand-harvested, with a maximum yield of 10 tons per hectare. The producer's approach emphasizes adherence to regional appellation regulations and expressing the character of the Langhe terroir.