# Moncucco Nizza (2021)

- **Producer:** Dacasto Duilio
- **Colour:** red
- **Type:** still
- **Grapes:** Barbera
- **Region:** Piemonte, Italy
- **Style:** Classic
- **Average price:** €33
- **Contains sulphites:** No
- **When to drink:** Now or Later
- **Serving temperature:** 16–18 °C
- **Aromas & flavours:** red plum, red cherry

## About this wine

The Dacasto Duilio 'Moncucco Nizza' 2021 is a 100% Barbera wine from the Nizza DOCG appellation in Piedmont, Italy. The Dacasto Duilio winery, a family estate in its fifth generation, is located in Agliano Terme. The 'Moncucco' bottling comes from old vines, with some sources indicating a vineyard planted in 1932 or 1945, known for its sun exposure and calcareous marl soil. The Nizza DOCG appellation, established in 2014, has strict production standards for Barbera, including minimum aging and alcohol content, to ensure a high-quality expression of the grape. Dacasto Duilio focuses on natural winemaking and allowing their estate-grown grapes to express their character.

## Interesting facts

- Nizza DOCG is a relatively new appellation, established in 2014, to highlight the finest Barbera.
- Wines from Nizza DOCG must age for at least 18 months, with a minimum of 6 months in barrel.
- The Moncucco vineyard has vines planted as early as 1932.
- Dacasto Duilio was an early adopter of the Nizza DOCG, releasing their first Moncucco in 2015.

## Food pairing

The wine's medium+ body and characteristic Barbera acidity can cut through the richness of fatty meats and creamy sauces. Its fruit-forward nature complements savory dishes, while moderate tannins provide a good counterpoint to protein.

## Wine making process

The Dacasto Duilio 'Moncucco Nizza' is produced from 100% Barbera grapes. Following harvest, the grapes undergo fermentation, typically in stainless steel tanks, to preserve freshness. The wine is then aged for a minimum of 18 months, with at least six months spent in barrel, as mandated by the Nizza DOCG regulations. This aging period allows for the development of complexity and integration of flavors. The winery's approach emphasizes minimal intervention to allow the character of the old vines and the Nizza terroir to be expressed.