# Vignalina Tenuta Santa Caterina Barbera d'Asti Superiore (2020)

- **Producer:** Società Agricola Tenuta Santa Caterina S.R.L.
- **Colour:** red
- **Type:** still
- **Grapes:** Barbera
- **Region:** Piedmont, Italy
- **Style:** Natural
- **Alcohol:** 15.0%
- **Average price:** €20
- **Vegan:** Yes
- **Contains sulphites:** Yes
- **When to drink:** Now or Later
- **Serving temperature:** 14–17 °C
- **Aromas & flavours:** strawberry, mulberry, cherry, plum, cloves, vanilla, earth, forest floor

## About this wine

The Vignalina Tenuta Santa Caterina Barbera d'Asti Superiore 2020 is a 100% Barbera from Piedmont's Asti region. The wine's name, 'Vignalina,' is a personal tribute from the producer, Guido Carlo Alleva, to his mother and great-grandmother, both named Lina, signifying a 'Vineyard for Lina.' It originates from the single Podere dei Mossetti vineyard, characterized by slow and late grape maturation, which allows for a profound expression of the territory and vine. Tenuta Santa Caterina, the estate behind this wine, was revived by Guido Carlo Alleva in 2000, who returned to his maternal heritage to continue a family viticultural tradition. The estate's philosophy centers on producing wines of superior quality, value, and personality, with a deep respect for the environment, blending traditional knowledge with modern practices. Their vineyards are managed following symbiotic agriculture principles, and the estate boasts a historic cellar, the 'Infernòt,' recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

## Interesting facts

- The name 'Vignalina' means 'Vineyard for Lina'.
- Vineyard is at 350 meters elevation.
- Estate cellar is a UNESCO World Heritage site.
- Farmed using symbiotic agriculture principles.

## Food pairing

The wine's medium+ body and balanced acidity make it versatile. Its fruit-forward character complements richer meats, while the acidity cuts through fattiness, cleansing the palate. Subtle spice notes can harmonize with herbs and slow-cooked dishes.

## Wine making process

The Vignalina Tenuta Santa Caterina Barbera d'Asti Superiore 2020 is produced from hand-harvested grapes from the Podere dei Mossetti vineyard, beginning in the third week of September. A vigorous hand-sorting process is employed, with partial whole cluster inclusion. Fermentation takes place at controlled temperatures between 26-28°C using native yeasts. During maceration, a technique called 'delestage' is utilized for 3-4 days to enhance extraction. Following fermentation, the wine ages for approximately 10 months in large Slavonian oak barrels (30hl). It then undergoes a minimum of 6 months of bottle aging before release. The vineyard management follows symbiotic agriculture principles, avoiding chemicals and non-organic fertilizers, and promoting natural flora and fungi.