Brovia 2021 Barbera d’Alba ‘Sori del Drago’ Piemonte

Brovia Barbera d’Alba Sori del Drago is one of the real gems when it comes to Barbera grown outside its home in Asti. Raised in stainless steel, Drago has structure and weight without sacrificing the juicy and effusive personality of Barbera. A real balancing act done beautifully.

I would consider Brovia to be one of the benchmark estates in Barolo, hand down. Ever since brothers Giacinto and Raffaele revitalized the estate in the late 1950’s, there has been a steady stream of Grand Cru vineyard acquisitions that have separated Brovia from its peers. They own some of the finest parcels in Castiglione Falletto and Serralungs d’Alba, two of Barolos most important communes. Today, Elena Brovia with her husband Alex Sanchez run the show and their wines feel timeless. Although they do not covet any certification, the Brovias work 100% organically in the vineyard and follow their families roots when it comes to methodology in the winery. This “old school” approach ensures maximum extraction from the grapes and aging in casks big enough to fill a room. I came across Sori del Drago in NYC years ago and it stands as one of the finest examples of Barbera from outside Asti. There is a deft balance going on here between boldness yet the wine feels youthful and energetic.

WINEMAKER: Giuseppe and Raffaela Bologna

VARIETAL: 100% Grignolino

APPELLATION: Rocchetta Tanaro, Asti

REGION: Piemonte

IN THE VINEYARD: Sustainable practice

IN THE WINERY: 4 months in steel, rest in bottle

ABV%: 13

SERVE: Pop and pour, best with a slight chill