Today we put on a comfortable pair of shoes and set off to discover a hillside so steep it seems to defy gravity itself. Bathed in sunshine from dawn until dusk, welcome to Vigna Zana, the vineyard where the Marenco family cultivates its most ambitious red wine dream. We are in Castelboglione, a small village nestled among the hills of the Alto Monferrato area of Asti. Here, the soil is something truly special: pale and sandy, forcing the vine roots to dig deep in search of nourishment. The vineyard reaches gradients of up to 30% and sits at an altitude of 420 metres above sea level. This geographical combination creates exceptional temperature variation between day and night. The grapes ripen slowly, retaining their vibrant natural acidity while developing impressive structure. The Nizza DOCG appellation represents the highest expression of Barbera in Piedmont. Originally a subzone, it earned its own independent status thanks to an exceptionally strict production code. To qualify as a Riserva, the wine must undergo an extended ageing process. This designation is a true guarantee for anyone seeking a characterful red capable of competing with some of the world's finest wines. The Barbera vines of Vigna Zana are up to 30 years old. As a result, they produce fewer bunches, but ones that are exceptionally rich in extract, natural sugars and minerals. Harvesting is carried out entirely by hand, selecting only the finest bunches and placing them in small crates to avoid crushing. In the winery, alcoholic fermentation takes place in small stainless steel tanks. Once malolactic fermentation is complete, the wine begins its maturation in 500-litre oak barrels. Bottling takes place only after at least 18 months of slow ageing in wood. This period of rest is the secret to taming the natural power of the grape variety. In the glass it displays a bright and vibrant ruby-red colour. The nose reveals an intense and fresh bouquet, with clear aromas of red berries, cherries and blackcurrants resting on an elegant, lightly spiced background. On the palate, the tannins are perfectly integrated and remarkably soft. The finish is juicy, fruity and marked by a distinct mineral note reminiscent of graphite. This Nizza Riserva is a true long-distance runner, with ageing potential comfortably exceeding ten years. The lively acidity of Barbera and the noble tannins contributed by oak protect the wine over time. With age, it will evolve towards even greater aromatic complexity.