“BarbIs”, nice play on words. To say: it’s indeed Barbera, and of the best. We are talking about Castellinaldo Barbera d’Alba: the first and only recognized subzone – so far – of Barbera d’Alba. The news: the first evening of the 2023 edition of the festival called in its honor (“BarbIs”, precisely) is already sold out. A symptom of enthusiasm: sumptuous tastings are being foretasted. «In combination, also a special gastronomic product of the area: this time the renowned Bra sausage», explains Francesca Marchisio, presenting the happening on Sunday, May 28.

Together with the other guys from the Vinaioli di Castellinaldo association, Francesca is among the organizers of the event: «A total of 20 wineries involved, with our most representative wines. And of course, lots of live music». All this, in the wonderful setting of the historic center of Castellinaldo: a medieval balcony that serves as a spectacular viewpoint over the hills. A perfect location for an intense, impeccable red. Officially promoted (with exclusive geographical mention) by the Ministry of Agriculture in August 2021.

Historic event, celebrated by the producers of Castellinaldo, along with those of Priocca and Magliano Alfieri, Canale, Vezza d’Alba, Castagnito and Guarene. They won it, the bet: to obtain the coveted award for their red wine, aged for a long time in wood. A wine of excellence, which comes from very limited yields and from vines at least 30 years old. The specifications are strict: only vines raised at an altitude between 250 and 350 meters are allowed.

Significant numbers: 200,000 bottles in all, guaranteed by dozens of producers in the area. Twenty of them will be present, with their labels, at “BarbIs” 2023. «Our Castellinaldo Barbera d’Alba bottles number 10,000», Francesca explains. «They are organic and biodynamic, the result of the Marchisio Family’s green commitment». A sip of beauty, the Castellinaldo: big aromas and ripe fruit. The acidic backbone and unmistakable varietal mark: an adult Barbera, all to celebrate.