Barbera d'Alba

Introduction

Barbera d'Alba is one of the most appreciated red wines of Italian enology. Obtained from Barbera grapes, a native variety of Piedmont, this wine stands out for its fruity and slightly tannic flavour. The Alba production area, in particular, is known for its clayey and calcareous soils which give the wine a unique and intense taste. In this article we will find out everything about Barbera d'Alba wine, from its history to its production, passing through the organoleptic characteristics and food pairings.

History

Barbera d'Alba has ancient origins, dating back to Roman times. It was one of the first grape varieties to be grown in the Piedmont region, along with Nebbiolo and Dolcetto. Initially considered a "popular" variety compared to the more noble Nebbiolo, Barbera has been able to earn the respect of wine enthusiasts thanks to its versatility and its ability to adapt to the most varied terrains.

Organoleptic characteristics

Barbera d'Alba wine stands out for its intense ruby red color and its fruity aroma, with hints of cherry, plum and spices. In the mouth it is soft and velvety, with a fruity flavor and a slightly tannic note. Depending on the aging period and production techniques, the wine may have different organoleptic characteristics, but its freshness and acidity remain constant.

Production

The Barbera d'Alba production area extends between the Langhe hills, north of Alba. The production disciplinary states that the wine is obtained from Barbera grapes grown in this area and that its alcohol content is between 12.5% and 14.5%. The vinification involves fermentation in steel or wood, followed by an aging period which can last from 6 to 18 months. The wine can be marketed from 1 March of the year following the harvest.

Food pairings

Barbera d'Alba is a versatile wine that adapts to different gastronomic combinations. Thanks to its freshness and acidity, it goes perfectly with meat dishes, such as roasts and braised meats. In particular, the combination with raw beef, typical of Piedmont, is a winning choice. The wine also goes well with mushroom-based dishes, aged cheeses and cured meats.

Barbera d'Alba is a dry and pleasantly tannic red wine, with a strong but at the same time elegant character. It is produced in various areas of Piedmont, but the most important area is that of the hills between the provinces of Asti and Alessandria, where the climate is particularly suitable for the cultivation of vines. The denomination Barbera d'Alba DOC can only be used for wines produced with grapes grown in this area.

Barbera d'Alba is characterized by an intense ruby red color with violet reflections. The nose perceives aromas of ripe red fruit, such as cherry and plum, but also notes of spice and vanilla. In the mouth it is pleasantly tannic, but at the same time soft and round, with a persistent and balanced taste.

Barbera d'Alba is a very versatile wine, which goes well with many dishes of Italian cuisine. It is perfect with first courses based on meat sauce, such as the classic pasta with meat sauce, but it also lends itself well to accompanying grilled or stewed red meat. Furthermore, thanks to its balanced acidity, it also goes well with aged cheeses.

Our Ecommerce offers a vast selection of Barbera d'Alba from the best cellars in Piedmont. You can choose between different labels and vintages, to find the one that best suits your tastes and needs. Furthermore, we offer the possibility of personalizing your order with elegant and refined gift packaging, to make a special gift for yourself or your loved ones.

Choosing to buy Barbera d'Alba on our Ecommerce means having the guarantee of buying high quality wines from the best cellars in the area. Furthermore, thanks to our experience and our passion for the world of wine, we are able to offer a personalized service and consultancy, to help our customers choose the wine that best suits their needs and tastes.

Do not hesitate to contact us for more information on Barbera d'Alba and on our selection of wines. We are always available to answer your questions and to offer the best possible service to our customers.