Today's tasting comes after a long week on holiday away from wine tasting. That is not to say I haven't been tasting wines; quite the contrary. Being at home with my parents in the United States has afforded me the opportunity to try some incredible wines which are rare and difficult to find in the UK. Hopefully not for long, though as my taste buds have been constantly graced with delicious Californians and some fantastic Italian wines as well. This is from the latter...
Country of Origin: Italy
Viticultural Region: La Morra
Classification: D.O.C.
Varietals: Barbera (100%)
Price Range: £15-£20
Appearance: A lovely clarity and persistent tears on the glass compliment a pale colour in this wine.
Nose: Ripe red cherry is dominant on the nose with a hint of flowers and black tea. It is fruity but not unsubtle. It has a certain rusticity to it's style and while it isn't particularly overwhelmingly fragrant, it does hint that the palate will be well balanced, delicate and pleasing.
Palate: Unlike last week's Riesling, this week the promises made by the nose are kept by the palate. It is perfumed and delicate. If I were a good few decades older, I'd say it had a slightly campari-like characteristic. Fortunately, unlike Campari, the finish is delightfully floral, and the general mouthfeel is light, gently tannic and acidic enough to pair well with northern Italian dishes.
Balance: I am pleased to say that this classic wine checks all the boxes. It is food friendly and lively. Obviously more adherent to it's cool climate region than more common Italian varieties such as Sangiovese and Montepulciano, it is delicate, fragrant and floral.
Score: 90/100
I must give some context to the situation in which this wine was tasted. On holiday as I've said whilst in the company of my loving family, with cousins around and a category 3 hurricane lashing our windows leaving us powerless for the ensuing 3 days, provided a unique scenario for wine tasting. Between the young cousins clamoring and the hurricane causing stress; this Barbera was so very welcome and I think in any situation it could be a welcome friend for you.
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