Barbera
An Italian native which is typically drunk young and fresh. Laden with red fruit and high levels of acidity but with low tannins, this is a very satisfying medium bodied red. Barbera is on somewhat of a revival and has seen a huge increase in demand and popularity, particularly in Piemonte, north-west Italy. Beating it’s former reputation as a lesser wine, it has now almost become a “wine of the people” – affordable, good value and very drinkable!
Barbera Tasting Notes
Blackberry
Cherry
Strawberry
Tobacco
Liquorice
As Barbera is typically enjoyed young, the effects of oak ageing are sometimes limited. Common notes are therefore largely fruit-led, with flavours of blackberry, dark cherry and strawberry typically found. When aged, notes of tobacco and spice appear, including nutmeg and star anise, and the fruit flavours develop a riper profile, creating sweeter notes of liquorice.
Barbera Wine Style
Full and Fruity Red Wine
Light Full-BodiedBarbera is a fairly unique grape in that it can taste and appear both full-bodied and light-bodied. In terms of colour, it is very dark due to its pigmentation, which is why it can be perceived as heavier than it actually is. As with most Italian reds, Barbera makes high acidity wine packing a fruit-laden punch. Low tannins lessen the blow and heighten it’s full and fruity appeal.
Wine Regions
Italy
USA
Argentina
Although the home of Barbera is undoubtedly in Italy – over 80% of Barbera vines are found here – many countries have become fascinated with this variety. Just over the border in Slovenia for example, winemakers are dedicating land to imitate their Italian friends for Barbera production. There are also a considerable and increasing number of vineyards in California and Argentina committing themselves to the variety. Barbera from warmer regions enjoy the added benefits of high levels of sunshine and have a more rounded flavour than their European counterparts.
What Food Goes with Barbera?
As the saying goes, if you pair wine with food from the same region, you can’t go wrong. Try this with simple Italian beef dishes, polenta or a hearty Piedmont pork stew – a classic local dish. Barbera also pairs particularly well with white truffles and medium strength blue cheese.
