The fastest way to learn about wine is to sip something that’s different from your usual choice. You’re pouring Cabernet Sauvignon or Pinot Noir every night? Are oaked Chardonnays or New Zealand Sauvignon Blanc always in the wine fridge? Try something new… with no regrets! I’ve just found four wines under $20 that exceeded my expectations from the first sip to the last. What’s in my glass? Barbera d’Asti! And soon, you’ll be pouring them, too.
Photo Credit: Consorzio Vini Asti Monferrato
Widespread in Italy and throughout the world, Barbera is native to Piemonte in northwest Italy where almost half of the region’s plantings are of this variety. Characterized by high acidity and soft tannic structure, this deep purple grape offers a medium body and a thread of earthy minerality. In general, aromas and flavors are of tart raspberries and cherries, dried herbs, spice, lavender and earth.
Photo Credit: bwineblog
About Barbera d’Asti
Barbera has found its optimal expression in Barbera d’Asti and Barbera del Monferrato. The gently rolling hills of Monferrato with its sandy, calcareous soils are considered the home of Barbera. Because the variety ripens early (usually around the second half of September), Barbera d’Asti is cultivated on cooler slopes at a lower altitude. Soils towards the northern section of the zone are calcareous, an element that gives the variety its deep, rich color and in the south, sandy soils help produce wines that are lighter in color. The region became a DOC in 1970 and reached DOCG status in 2008. It consists of three sub-areas: Nizza, Tinella and Colli Astiani and includes 167 townships across the provinces of Asti and Alessandria.
Photo Credit: Consorzio Vini Asti Monferrato
In the past, Barbera was known as a “workhorse grape” and only used for large batches of cheap red wine. Now, thanks to vintners who understand the variety and unlocked its potential, Barbera d’Asti is appreciated for its approachability, affordability and food friendly qualities. Alongside vinification in steel, the use of barriques and barrels has developed, aimed at producing the Superiore type exhibiting more complex notes and having the capability to age. Although a young Barbera d’Asti is easy drinking and delicious, an wine from an older vintage is exceptional.
Photo Credit: Wine Enthusiast
Don’t forget the food! Bright acidity and a savory, layered palate profile make Barbera d’Asti a brilliant complement to a variety of dishes including enchiladas, pizza, burgers, steak, lasagna and so much more. You’re inviting a few friends for a casual happy hour with appetizers on a Tuesday evening? Open a bottle (or two) of fresh, vibrant Barbera d’Asti. Planning a romantic dinner with someone special? Sip Barbera d’Asti and savor the moment.
Four Wines of Barbera d’Asti to Pour
Savory and classic, Tenuta Montemagno Mysterium Barbera d’Asti Superiore 2016 ($17) was magnificent with garlic roasted duck (click here for the recipe). Aged for at least six months in oak, I found vibrant aromas of dried cherries and rose petals, earth, white pepper, wild raspberry, herbs and hint of sweet green pepper were enticing. The balanced, round palate burst with flavors of lush red and purple fruit and the finish lingered…
Combining elegance and affordability is Prediomagno’ VLU Barbera d’Asti 2019 ($19). Ruby red in the glass, broad aromas of ripe cherries, raspberries, herbs and baking spice were a lush introduction to what was in the glass. Velvet-like tannins and bright acidity surrounded notes of savory herbs and rich fruit, all of which led to a persistent and flavorful finish. The food pairing? I splurged and made truffle pasta (click here for the recipe).
Known for its range of Barolo wines of Nebbiolo as well as traditional, local wines including Barbera d’Asti, Azienda Agricolo Mauro Molino produces Barbera d’Asti DOCG Leradici – Mauro Molino Viticotore 2020 ($19), a mouthwatering choice. On the nose, aromas of red cherries, white pepper, vanilla and spice were intense. Soft tannins and bright acidity framed notes of earth and moss, green olives, spice, black plum and blackberries on the palate. This was a delightful Barbera d’Asti with a recent weeknight dinner of Spaghetti Bolognese (click here for the recipe).
At this price point, you’ll want to purchase a case of BriccoMeli Barbera d’Asti Superiore Goggiano 2019 ($11). I was swept back to Piemonte with each sip of this authentic wine, aged for at least six months in oak. Aromas and flavors of dark fruit, balsamic, earth, plums and spice surrounded the variety’s signature elements of gentle tannins and vibrant acidity. A few glasses complemented my dinner of slow cooker roasted pheasant in cream sauce served over fried polenta (click here for the recipe).
Cheers! ~ Cindy
For more Grape Experiences and a free infographic “4 Keys to a Stellar Wine Pick” click here.
Photo Credit: Consorzio Vini Asti Monferrato
Deborah B Janz
Cindy Rynning