# La Gena Barbera d'Asti Superiore (2020)

- **Producer:** La Gironda
- **Colour:** red
- **Type:** still
- **Grapes:** Barbera
- **Region:** Piemonte, Italy
- **Style:** Classic
- **Alcohol:** 13.5%
- **Average price:** €30
- **Contains sulphites:** No
- **When to drink:** Now or Later
- **Serving temperature:** 16–18 °C
- **Aromas & flavours:** red plum, red cherry, black cherry, butter, cream

## About this wine

La Gironda Barbera d'Asti La Gena Superiore 2020 is a red wine from Piedmont, Italy, specifically from the Nizza Monferrato sub-region. The wine is made from 100% Barbera grapes and carries the Barbera d'Asti DOCG Superiore classification. The name 'La Gena' in Piedmontese dialect translates to 'awkwardness' or 'embarrassment,' referencing the winery's journey from producing winemaking machinery to becoming wine producers. La Gironda is a family-run estate founded in 2000, committed to organic farming and traditional winemaking techniques to express the unique character of their land.

## Interesting facts

- 'La Gena' means 'awkwardness' or 'embarrassment' in Piedmontese dialect, reflecting the winery's initial hesitations.
- The winery transitioned from producing winemaking machinery to becoming wine producers.
- Vineyards are located on the 'Bricco' hill in Nizza Monferrato.
- Organic farming practices are employed with maximum respect for the environment.

## Food pairing

The wine's full body and vibrant acidity are well-suited to cut through the richness of fatty meats and complement protein. The fruit-forward character of Barbera can harmonize with savory sauces and herbs, while its moderate tannins provide a pleasant counterpoint to richer dishes.

## Wine making process

La Gironda Barbera d'Asti La Gena Superiore 2020 is produced using 100% Barbera grapes. The winemaking process begins with de-stalking and soft pressing. Fermentation occurs in temperature-controlled stainless-steel vats at 28-30ºC, with maceration on skins for seven days. Malolactic fermentation is carried out in stainless-steel vats. The wine is aged for a period in wooden barrels, followed by bottle aging. The winery employs organic farming practices, treating vines only with copper or sulfur and avoiding herbicides, with a philosophy focused on expressing the land's terroir through traditional methods.