Known for genre-leading, intense and elegant spirits, Berta Distillerie was established in 1947 by Paolo Berta. Already an oenologist in the Asti area (with a brother producing astounding Barolo Chinato), Paolo began the setup of an operation that would bring finesse and expression to Italian grappa that was previously unseen.
Today, Distillerie Berta remains an entirely artisanal operation under its fourth generation in Roccanivo, in the Piemonte winegrowing area not far from Nizza. The distillery overlooks vineyards and 8 acres of natural park which has been reclaimed and regenerated by the family. Berta has always led the pack, due to the exacting standards set firstly by Paolo, and continued by the family team now led by Gianfranco Berta.
Hermetically sealed fermentation of local marc provides intensely aromatic base material, which is then distilled via traditional, steam-powered pot stills. The heart only is selected by the master distiller, and is delivered to the cantina to rest in Tronçais d’Allier oak barrels of various toast levels and sizes. Maturation can play out over decades to achieve the result the Berta team desire.
The quality of the base ingredients (often single-varietal marc from the best vineyards in the area), with premium oak, fastidious handling by the distillery team and unimaginable patience in the cellar all produce category-defining grappae. These spirits are highly aromatic with an amber colour and classic oak qualities of vanilla and tobacco, along with a beautiful texture lent by the wood and time that many would more commonly associate with Cognac. To this end, it’s recommended that Berta grappae are sipped from wide glasses with a narrower lip to allow the aromas and volatile character to be explored more thoroughly.
The Berta family is mired in their own traditional art, and is heavily involved with the artistic and cultural communities of Piemonte. Alongside operating two Relais chateaux and the Borgo Roccanivo in the immediate area, they also operate a museum and a Foundation (SoloPerGian) to support tradition and artisans in danger of obsoletion.
For more information please visit www.distillerieberta.it
