Brachetto d'Acqui

Brachetto d'Acqui is a sweet, lightly sparkling red wine produced in the Piedmont region of Italy. It is made from the Brachetto grape and is known for its distinctive strawberry aroma and taste. The wine is often served with dessert or as an aperitif.

History

The history of Brachetto d'Acqui dates back to the Roman times. The wine was reportedly a favorite of both Julius Caesar and Mark Antony, who gifted it to Cleopatra as a means to win her affection. The wine has been produced in the region for centuries, and its production was formalized with the establishment of the Brachetto d'Acqui Denominazione di Origine Controllata (DOC) in 1969.

Production

Brachetto d'Acqui is produced in the hilly areas of the provinces of Alessandria and Asti. The wine is made from 100% Brachetto grapes, which are harvested by hand in early September. The grapes are then gently pressed and the juice is fermented at a controlled temperature. The fermentation process is stopped before all the sugar is converted to alcohol, resulting in a sweet wine with a low alcohol content.

Characteristics

Brachetto d'Acqui is a ruby red wine with a persistent froth. It has a distinctive aroma of strawberries, roses, and raspberries, with a sweet, soft, and aromatic taste. The wine is often served chilled and is known for its light, refreshing qualities.

Food Pairing

Due to its sweet nature, Brachetto d'Acqui pairs well with desserts, particularly those made with red fruits. It is also a popular choice for serving with spicy foods, as the sweetness of the wine can help to balance the heat.

See Also

• Italian wine
• Piedmont (wine)
• Denominazione di Origine Controllata