Ca' del Baio "Autinbej" Barbaresco '20

The history of the Grasso family in Treiso dates to 1870. By 1921, the family had begun to plant vines and produce small quantities of wine. Ca del Baio has been a family affair for four generations, which is not particularly surprising, as tradition runs deep in the Langhe. The current head of the Grasso family, Giulio, was born in 1959 and eventually took over from his father, Ernesto. He is still actively involved, along with his wife, Luciana, and their three dynamic daughters, Paola, Valentina, and Federica. From the growing and vinification of the grapes, to the hospitality and wine sales, everything is managed by the family, and always using the expertise and passion that has been passed down through the generations.

The family’s home and cantina are situated in Treiso. The cru Barbaresco vineyard holdings are divided among Treiso and Barbaresco proper. Of the 25 or so hectares owned by the family, about 17 are in Treiso and the rest are in Barbaresco. Production averages 100,000 bottles, half of which is Nebbiolo (Barbaresco and Langhe Nebbiolo), with the other half divided among Dolcetto, Barbera, and Langhe whites. Calcareous marl is the predominant soil here, and in some parts of the vineyards the topsoils are so white that you might think that it just snowed, thanks to all the lime and calcareous material.

“Autinbej” is a tribute to Giulio Grasso’s late father, Ernesto, who often used the Piemontese word to describe the best vineyard exposures. The fruit for the 2020 “Autinbej” is sourced from the Marcarini, Montersino, and Ferrere vineyards. The grapes were macerated on the skins from 9 to 15 days in stainless steel tanks at controlled temperatures. The resulting wine matured for 24 months in large Slavonian oak barrels (botti), followed by aging in bottle for at least four months before release.

Super classic Nebbiolo aromas of red fruits, leather, and spice. Medium-bodied, with nicely integrated tannins, the finish is long and complex. You probably won't find a better Barbaresco value!