Barbera d’Asti
Tasting Notes
Barbera d’Asti is made from the Barbera grape. This grape has its origins in the Piedmont region of Northwestern Italy. It has been cultivated since the thirteenth century.
🎯 Overall Character - Barbera d’Asti is best described as a versatile red wine with a ruby red colour, refreshing high acidity and subtle tannins. It features flavourful notes of red fruit, spice and earthy undertones complemented with perfumed aromas of violet and rose petal.
🍒 On the Nose (Aromatics)
Barbera d’Asti shows a medium plus aroma intensity that is red fruit based, perfumed and clean. Primary aromas include fresh sour cherry, red plum and raspberry. Secondary aromas inclue violet, rose petal, subtle anise and balsamic. If oak aged, aromas of sweet spice, vanilla, cocoa and toast are present.
🍷 On the Palate - Barbera d’Asti is a dry red wine with high mouthwatering acidity, medium body and low to medium tannins. Alcohol levels are considered moderate typically between 12-14% ABV. Primary flavours are red cherry, cranberry, and red currant at the core. You may find blackberry skin and a touch of black plum on riper examples. Savoury undertones of dried herbs, subtle earth, and a whisper of cocoa or spice if oak aged. The texture of the wine is supple, sleek and acid driven vs. tannin driven. The finish is long, vibrant and clean with a lingering cherry notes.
🕰️ Aging Profile - Barbera d'Asti wine can be aged for 5 to 15 years or more, depending on the vintage and winemaking practices. As the wine ages, the acidity levels remain high however the vibrant red fruit flavours change to dried fruit, forest floor and dry leaves.
Food Pairing
Barbera d’Asti is a medium body red wine with refreshingly high acidity and low tannins. The high acidity pairs well with tomato based dishes and the low tannins keeps the wine smooth and ideal for lighter protein dishes.
🍅 1. Tomato‑Driven Italian Classics - Ideal pairings include Pizza (Margherita, sausage, mushroom), Pasta al pomodoro, Penne alla vodka, Lasagna, Cannelloni and Eggplant parmigiana. These are excellent pairings because the wine’s acidity mirrors and lifts the tomatoes.
🍗 2. Poultry & Pork - Barbera d’Asti shines with herb‑driven, roasted, or tomato‑braised preparations. Excellent pairings to consider is Roast chicken with herbs and lemon, Pork chops or pork shoulder braised with tomatoes and herbs.
🍄 3. Earthy & Savory - Barbera d’Asti’s subtle herbal and earthy notes pair beautifully with Mushroom risotto and dishes with truffle or porcini accents.
🥘 4. Hearty but Not Too Heavy - Excellent pairings include Meatballs in tomato sauce, Sausage ragù and Orecchiette with tomato and sausage.
🧀 5. Cheese Pairings - Best matches include young Pecorino, Parmigiano‑Reggiano, and Taleggio cheese. Mild to medium aged cheeses also pair well with this wine.
⚠️ What to avoid - Very rich, gamey, or deeply braised dishes (e.g., wild rabbit stew) can overpower a lighter Barbera d’Asti, making the wine seem sharp.
Pizza
Lasagna
Roast Chicken
Meatballs in tomato sauce