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Barbera
Versatility of Italy
Another grape of the Piedmont, Barbara is one of those varieties of the old world that often appears on the label - Barbara d'Alba, Barbara d'Asti for example. Native to Piedmont, Barbara is a hardy grape that shows best in the chalky soils of the area. Sometimes a blending grape of the country as well, there are wines that do not specify their inclusion of Barbara, only those that are using % of the varietal call it such. Barbera has also found a blending role in California and other US wine regions.
Notable Facts
Barbara is a versatile grape, once frequently used for blending because it can throw structure into a lighter wine and yet give softness to one that was overly tannic. It is now lauded as a sole variety for the same versatility. Pure Barbara wines from the Piedmont are rustic, as many Italian wines can be, but demonstrate good, round fruit flavors that are easy drinking right when they are released. The wine occasionally sees oak, and Barbara from a strong vintage and good winemaker can gain character with a few years of ageing, however most Barbara-based wines are ready upon release to show their bright fruit flavors, smooth tannins and structured acidity.
Summing it up
Successful Sites: Northern Italy, Other Italy, Some California
Common Descriptors: juicy, cherry, blackberry, chocolate
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