One of Italy’s most iconic Barberas — but would you have recognized it blind?

Born from the vision of Giacomo Bologna, founder of Braida, this Barbera revolutionized how the world saw the grape — transforming it from a rustic local variety into an icon of Italian elegance and power.

Produced in Rocchetta Tanaro, in the heart of Monferrato, from vines 20–40 years old, this wine captures both heritage and innovation. Today, Giacomo’s children Raffaella and Giuseppe Bologna carry his dream forward with the same passion and precision.

In the glass, it shows a deep ruby core with garnet reflections. The bouquet reveals layers of red and black fruits, mint, vanilla, and a hint of licorice — wrapped in elegant oak spice.

On the palate: intense, full-bodied and structured, yet beautifully balanced. Silky tannins and lively acidity give it energy and lift, while the long finish carries notes of spice and dark cherry.

Aged 15 months in French oak barriques, followed by 12 months in bottle, this 2020 vintage reaches an impressive 16.5 % vol., showcasing both richness and finesse.

🎬 Tasted blind in our trusted Gabriel-Glas.

👉 Serve at 16–18 °C. Perfect with braised meat, truffle dishes or aged cheese.

🍇 Fun fact: The name Bricco dell’Uccellone (“the hill of the big bird”) comes from a local woman who always dressed in black and was affectionately nicknamed l’Uccellona – the big bird. The vineyard near her house still bears that name today — a touch of Rocchetta folklore in every bottle.

Have you ever tasted a Barbera this expressive?

Grapes: 100% Barbera Vineyard: Bricco dell'Uccellone, Rocchetta Tanaro (Asti - Piemonte)
Vineyard age: 20 - 40 years
Soil: Sandy clay with limestone, well-drained Altitude: 160 m a.s.l.
Aging: 15 months in French oak barriques + 12 months in bottle Alcohol: 16.5% vol.
Winemaker: Braida di Giacomo Bologna First vintage: 1982
Price: 60.- CHF

Sometimes the second wine steals the spotlight.

Born in the rolling hills of Montalcino, Lucente is the younger brother of the iconic Luce della Vite, yet it carries its own distinct identity — modern, expressive, and unmistakably Tuscan.

The estate Tenuta Luce was founded in the early 1990s through a collaboration between Marchesi de’ Frescobaldi and Robert Mondavi, two families who believed that the power of Sangiovese and the softness of Merlot could create something entirely new in Montalcino.

The 2020 vintage continues that legacy: in the glass, a deep ruby red with violet reflections. The nose opens with ripe blackberries, plums, and dark cherries, followed by hints of cocoa, tobacco, and sweet spice. On the palate, it’s velvety, round, and full of energy — the Merlot adds plush texture while the Sangiovese brings lift and freshness.

Aged 12 months in French oak barriques, Lucente strikes the perfect balance between Tuscan authenticity and international finesse.

🎬 Tasted blind in our trusted Gabriel-Glas, this wine surprised us with its harmony and smoothness — rich, yet approachable; elegant, yet full of character.

👉 Best enjoyed at 16 – 18 °C. Pairs beautifully with grilled meats, pasta ragù, or aged Pecorino Toscano.

Have you ever tasted a “second wine” that shines this bright? The name says it all “Lucente” shining light 💡

Grapes: Merlot 50% | Sangiovese 50% Region: Montalcino – Toscana IGT Vineyard altitude: 350 – 420 m a.s.l. Soil: Mixed clay and sand with limestone Aging: 12 months in French oak barriques
Alcohol: 14.5 % vol
Winemaker: Tenuta Luce – Frescobaldi Family First vintage: 1995
Price: 27.- CHF