The Crena vineyard graces the vicinity of Agliano Terme, bathed in a southern exposure across approximately 6 hectares. Employing the Guyot trellis system, the grapevines are meticulously planted at an average density of 4,800 plants.
Following a brief stint of cold maceration, the grapes undergo fermentation in stainless steel tanks, a meticulous process spanning approximately two weeks. This transformative period involves a series of precise mechanical punch-downs, délestage, and numerous open-air pumping overs. Post-fermentation, the wine luxuriates in its skin for an additional week before being gracefully transferred to oak barrels for the crucial malolactic fermentation phase.
“I can’t think of too many estates in Piedmont that have raised the bar higher than Vietti has over the last decade or so. Virtually every wine that emerges from these cellars is outstanding, and many are profound … an unprecedented level of consistency and quality across their entire range.” ANTONIO GALLONI, Vinous Media
The 2020 Barbera d'Asti La Crena is soft and voluptuous from the outset. In this vintage, La Crena is significantly forward and fruit-driven. The 2020 will need at least a few years for the classic La Crena aromas and flavours to emerge fully. Hints of gravel, crushed rocks and dried herbs linger, hinting at what will come. La Crena usually blossoms with time in the bottle. I won't at all be surprised if that happens here as well.