Description
Giuseppe Bocchino Vino Rosso "Pranzetto" 2023
This lively Piedmontese red is a charming field blend primarily composed of Barbera and Dolcetto, two of the region's most beloved indigenous varieties. While exact percentages vary slightly by vintage to maintain balance, the wine typically relies on Barbera for its vibrant acidity and juicy fruit core, while Dolcetto contributes structure, deep color, and tannic grip. The name "Pranzetto"—meaning "little lunch"—perfectly encapsulates the wine's intention: it is crafted to be an accessible, daily companion to the table rather than a brooding cellar selection.
The 2023 vintage in the Asti and Monferrato zones was characterized by a warm growing season, resulting in fruit with excellent ripeness and concentration. Hailing from the steep, calcareous marl and clay soils surrounding the village of Canelli (a UNESCO World Heritage site), the vines benefit from excellent drainage and sun exposure. These soils impart a subtle mineral undertone that grounds the ripe fruit profile. The warm 2023 summer ensured that the Dolcetto achieved full phenolic maturity, smoothing out its naturally rustic edges, while the cool nights preserved the essential freshness of the Barbera.
In the glass, the wine pours a brilliant, youthful ruby red with electric violet highlights, displaying moderate viscosity. The nose is expressive and fruit-forward, immediately offering a bouquet of crushed blueberries, wild blackberries, and tart red cherries. As it opens, secondary aromas of dried herbs, almond skin, and a hint of white pepper emerge, adding complexity to the primary fruit. On the palate, this wine is medium-bodied and dry, defined by a mouthwatering acidity that makes it incredibly food-friendly. The texture is energetic, with "marked tannins" that provide a pleasant chewiness without being astringent. Flavors of dark plum and bramble fruit dominate, leading to a clean, savory finish with a touch of graphite and bitter almond.
The Bocchino family has farmed these hills since the mid-19th century and continues to employ sustainable farming practices, strictly avoiding herbicides and minimizing the use of sulfites. Winemaking for the "Pranzetto" is "lo-fi" and traditional, designed to highlight the grape's natural character rather than winemaker influence. The fruit is hand-harvested and fermented in stainless steel tanks using indigenous yeasts to preserve the fresh, aromatic profile. There is no oak aging; instead, the wine rests briefly in steel and bottle to settle before release, ensuring the vibrant fruit remains the focal point.
True to its name, this wine shines with rustic, American-leaning comfort foods. It pairs beautifully with a pepperoni and hot honey pizza, where the wine's acidity cuts through the cheese and grease while the fruit balances the heat. Alternatively, try it with a grilled sausage and peppers sandwich; the savory herbs in the sausage will echo the wine's subtle spice notes. For a classic option, a burger topped with caramelized onions and sharp cheddar makes an excellent match for the wine's grippy tannins.
As a small-production "Vino Rosso" intended for immediate enjoyment, this specific label does not typically garner scores from major international critics like Wine Spectator or The Wine Advocate. However, it is highly regarded locally and by specialty importers for its exceptional value and authenticity. It represents an affordable entry point into the world of artisanal Piedmontese wine, offering a quality-to-price ratio that punches well above its weight class.
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