Il Cascinone, Crocera Barbera d'Asti Superiore 2020

The Barbera grapes are sourced from 6 ha of vines on south east and west facing slopes, on the estate of Il Cascinone in the Monferrato hills of Piemonte. While these grapes were planted in 2000, other grapes from younger vines are also included in the blend. Barbera is the most important grape in the region, producing distinctive wines. The wine is aged for 12 months in French oak barriques, of which 10-15% is new oak.

Il Cascinone was acquired by leading Piemonte producer Araldica in 1999 - an exceptional estate in the Monferrato hills which has undergone extensive restoration and replanting. Now around 70ha of the total 102ha are in full production, with the warmer, southwest-facing slopes used to grow Barbera, Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon - whilst the northeast slopes are ideal for more aromatic varieties Brachetto and Moscato, along with Sauvignon Blanc and Pinot Noir. The 'Il Cascinone' range (and part of the Alasia range) is produced with grapes sourced from Araldicas most prized vineyards, both on the estate itself and from other selected sites. This includes the further d'Annona vineyard in the village of Fontanile - purchased by Claudio Manera in 1998. This south-west facing vineyard is a source of premium quality Barbera, from vines over 60 years old. Grapes from d'Annona are brought to Il Cascinone for vinification. All harvesting at Il Cascinone and d'Annona is by hand. The Araldica winemaking team of Claudio Manera, Lella Burdese and Carlo Manera oversee all production.