# La Gironda Nizza DOCG Le Nicchie (2019)

- **Producer:** La Gironda
- **Colour:** red
- **Type:** still
- **Grapes:** Barbera
- **Region:** Piemonte, Italy
- **Style:** Classic
- **Alcohol:** 15.5%
- **Average price:** €36
- **Contains sulphites:** No
- **When to drink:** Now or Later
- **Serving temperature:** 16–18 °C
- **Aromas & flavours:** red plum, red cherry, black cherry, cloves, cedar, vanilla, earth, leather, tobacco

## About this wine

La Gironda Nizza DOCG Le Nicchie 2019 is a 100% Barbera from the Nizza Monferrato sub-region of Piedmont, Italy. The La Gironda estate, meaning 'the round' or 'the circuit,' is situated on the Bricco hill. The winery is guided by Susanna Galandrino, representing the third generation of a winemaking family, who, with her husband Alberto, began bottling their own wines in 2000. Their philosophy centers on expressing the terroir of Nizza Monferrato. The 'Le Nicchie' designation signifies a special selection of vineyard parcels. The Nizza DOCG appellation is recognized for producing Barbera wines of significant structure and aging potential, with specific regulations for vineyard siting and aging.

## Interesting facts

- 'Le Nicchie' translates to 'the niches,' suggesting a special selection of prime vineyard plots.
- Nizza DOCG wines require a minimum of 18 months aging, with at least 6 months in oak.
- La Gironda converted to organic farming in 2018, emphasizing environmental respect.
- Barbera is known for its vibrant acidity, a key characteristic of Nizza DOCG wines.

## Food pairing

The wine's full body and robust structure, characteristic of Nizza DOCG, stand up well to rich, protein-heavy dishes. Its inherent acidity cuts through the richness of fatty meats and creamy sauces, while its tannins complement the protein, softening the wine and enhancing the savory flavors of the food.

## Wine making process

The winemaking process for La Gironda Nizza DOCG Le Nicchie 2019 begins with a hand harvest. Fermentation occurs in temperature-controlled stainless-steel vats, with some Barbera undergoing partial fermentation in barrels. The wine then adheres to Nizza DOCG aging regulations, requiring a minimum of 18 months of aging from the year following harvest, with at least six months in oak. This is followed by bottle aging. La Gironda emphasizes traditional viticulture and a philosophy focused on expressing the terroir of Nizza Monferrato, having converted to organic farming in 2018.