Barbera d'Asti 2015 by Vietti

There are many different Barbera on the market. These are normally easy drinking wines. The cheapest ones are quite basic while the more expensive ones are normally more complex.

The two main areas are Barbera d'Alba and Barbera d'Asti. Normally the difference between the two are tricky to discover but I have been positively surprised by the wines from the Asti region lately.

This single plot Barbera from Agliano Terma caught my eye at a tasting at Vietti. It must be one of the best Barberas I have ever tried.

The oldest part of the La Arena vineyard was planted in 1932 in a loam-clay type of soil, with a southern exposure. The total surface is about 6 hectares. Fermentation lasts around couple of weeks in open-top stainless steel, with mechanical punching downs, délestage and many open-air pumping overs. After this, the wine macerates for another week, then it is racked and it is moved to oak for malolactic. The wine is aged in barriques, big oak vats and steel tanks for approximately 18 months.

Rich ruby color with concentrated ripe aromas of red raspberry and cherry with a touch of vanilla, toast and spice. Lovely smell! The taste is on the richer side of Barbera with lush fruit, well balanced acidity, good integration of oak and a long lingering finish.

This wine should go with almost anything like stews, seasoned pasta and poultry with rich sauces, game, roasted red meats and sharp cheeses.

Barbera d'Asti 2015 La Crena

Vietti

Ca 29€

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