Fontanabianca 2021 | Barbaresco

The Fontanabianca Barbaresco 2021 is a red wine produced by the Fontanabianca winery, located in the Piedmont region of Italy. This DOCG appellation wine originates from Neive, specifically from the Bordini hamlet. The estate was established in 1969 by Franco Pola and is currently managed by Aldo Pola and his son Matteo, who has served as the winemaker since 2013.

The vineyards consist of three plots situated in the municipality of Neive, planted with vines approximately thirty years old. The soil composition is clay-limestone, featuring a mix of bluish-grey Tortonian marls and white calcareous Helvetic marls. The wine is made from 100% Nebbiolo grapes. Vinification involves alcoholic fermentation in stainless steel tanks with temperature control. Following fermentation, the wine undergoes aging for twelve to fifteen months in a combination of large oak botti and smaller barriques.

This vintage presents itself as a red wine typical of the Barbaresco zone. The extended contact with both large format oak casks and standard barrels contributes to its structural development and complexity. The specific terroir, characterized by the distinct marl layers, provides the foundation for the wine's profile.

Critical reception for this bottling has been notably positive. The Wine Advocate (Parker) awarded the 2021 vintage a score of 94 points. Additionally, James Suckling gave the wine a rating of 93 points. These scores reflect the quality and balance achieved by the Pola family in this recent vintage.

Overall, the Fontanabianca Barbaresco 2021 represents a classic expression of Nebbiolo from Neive. With its focus on traditional winemaking techniques, including temperature-controlled fermentation and mixed oak aging, it offers a refined example of Italian red wine craftsmanship from the early 2020s.