Burzi 'Plaustra' Barbera d'Alba, Piemonte, Italy 2021

Alberto Burzi and his sister Caterina are the first to turn the fruit their family has grown for generations into superlative wines bottled under their own name. The energetic siblings are farming organically in the vineyards surrounding their home in the village of Santa Maria, and since their first vintage in 2012 have been creating small, standout productions. 

• Winemaker: Alberto Burzi
• Variety: Barbera
• Farming: Organic
• Terroir: Santa Maria in La Morra, on the hillside historically known as Plaustra. With western exposition, the vineyard was planted only in 2008. It’s a high-density plantation, 8,000 stump/Ha, in order to reduce the production of every grapevine for a better ripening.
  
• Vinification: Maceration at controlled temperature is carried out for 6 days with daily and manual pumping over. The alcoholic fermentation reaches 28 °C, preserving the perfumed aromas. The malolactic fermentation and the aging are done in steel tanks, where battonage is used to achieve a full and round body in opposition with the typical freshness of the Barbera.
• Tasting Notes: Medium bodied with delicious herbal and brambly notes, this wine can satisfy nearly anyone at the table. Aromas of black plums, red licorice, gravel and pomegranate juice give way to hints of bitter chocolate and pressed thyme.  

From Our 2025 Bottle Cult Notes:

One of Piemonte’s most beloved native varietals, Barbera grape is known for its deep color, generous acidity, and approachable character. While often overshadowed by the region’s more austere Nebbiolo-based wines, Barbera offers an expression of Piemonte that is immediately drinkable, food-friendly, and full of charm. Barbera d’Alba DOC refers to wines grown around the town of Alba, where vineyard sites range from valley floors to steep hillsides, and soils vary from sandy to clay-rich marl—lending diversity and depth to the wines.

The Burzi family, relative newcomers to winemaking with their first vintage in 2012, bring a fresh and thoughtful approach to traditional Piemontese varieties. Based in La Morra, in the heart of Barolo, the estate focuses on sustainable practices and meticulous vineyard work. 'Plaustra'—named after the Latin word for "wagon," a nod to the agricultural roots of the family—comes from 30-year-old vines planted in calcareous-clay soils. Fermentation takes place in stainless steel, followed by aging in large neutral oak casks to preserve the purity and freshness of the fruit.

The 2021 ‘Plaustra’ showcases Barbera in a classic light: vibrant and juicy, with aromas of wild cherry, black plum, and a hint of violet. On the palate, it is medium-bodied and lively, with bright acidity balancing soft tannins and a smooth texture. The finish is clean, with subtle notes of baking spice and earth. I love to pair this gorgeous easy-drinker with tomato-based pastas and pizzas, grilled sausages, or mushroom risotto. Serve slightly cool to highlight its freshness. —Karen Smith, DECANTsf