“Vigna Cuculo” Barbera d’Alba Superiore DOC 2023 (BIO)

Cavallotto | Piedmont
Cavallotto Fratelli | Alba-Monforte 104 | IT 12060 Castiglione Falletto

05512723 · 0,75 l · 45,33 €/l · Price (DE) incl. VAT, excl. Shippingavailable immediately

In a prime plot south of the legendary Bricco Boschis lies the Cavallottos' hidden gem: Vigna Cuculo. Here, where normally only Nebbiolo is supposed to thrive, brothers Giuseppe and Alfio have achieved an oenological miracle – a Barbera cru that combines its Piedmontese soul with the aristocratic elegance of its great Barolo neighbours. The name "Cuculo" – the cuckoo – could not be more poetic for this wine, which holds its own like a stranger in royal territory whilst developing its very own identity. The plot benefits from the unique microclimate of Bricco Boschis, that geological treasure where different soils converge in a symphony of limestone, marl and sand layers. This complexity of soil imparts a minerality and structure to the Barbera grape that goes far beyond what is normally expected of this variety. A west-south-west aspect and the calcareous-clay soils create ideal conditions for a wine of exceptional depth.

The result is a Barbera of rare elegance: a deep ruby red with violet highlights heralds a wine of remarkable concentration. Intense aromas of red fruits – cherries, raspberries, redcurrants – blend with floral notes and subtle hints of spice. On the palate, a perfect balance unfolds between Barbera's characteristic liveliness and a structure reminiscent of great Nebbiolo wines. The acidity is present but perfectly integrated, the tannins silky and elegant. Sometimes the most fascinating stories emerge precisely where no one expects them. SUPERIORE.DE

The Cuculo is impressive because it captures the richness of a warm vintage without sacrificing the elegance that Barbera wines can sometimes lack. Aromas of blackberries and black cherries are framed by a generous mid-palate that offers impressive depth and density, without the wine ever feeling heavy. Instead, it maintains a medium-bodied profile that harmonises power and restraint, creating a sense of balance not always associated with this naturally exuberant grape variety. Cavallotto has admirably succeeded in preserving freshness and balance in a vintage that could easily have led the wine into excess." Wine Advocate