2012 Braida “il Baciale” Monferrato Rosso DOC, Piedmonte, Italy.
Braida was one of the pioneers in elevating Barbera to Cru class and their commitment to this varietal hasn’t let up and this Barbera based blend “Il Baciale” is another gorgeous, generous and savvy wine with distinction and verve. This dark and medium/full bodied effort storms out of the gate with blackberry, cherry and plum along with minty herbs, anise, wild flowers and cedar offering richness and held together with acidity and ripe tannins. Giacomo Bologna’s il Baciale is a mix of 60% Barbera, 20% Pinot Nero, 10% Cabernet Sauvignon and 10% Merlot and is fermented in steel, separately and then raised in cask, with some parts in small barrique, this is a lot of wine for the money and it shows rich detail and texture, best with rustic and vibrant cuisines, especially meat dishes. The finish lingers with spice, cinnamon and dried currants, this is super tasty stuff, drink from 2015 to 2020.
($24 Est.) 92 Points, grapelive
