Barbera

The Barbera grape is one of the most popular varieties of red wine grapes originating from Italy. This grape has ancient origins, with historical accounts dating back to the 13th century. It is particularly associated with the Piedmont region in northwestern Italy, where it thrives in the rolling vineyards nestled between the Alps and Apennines mountains.

A striking feature of the Barbera grape is its vibrant, rich ruby colour. The grape skin is reasonably thick, which contributes to a higher yield in terms of juice. The relatively high acidity of Barbera wines allows for diverse food pairing options and aids in their ageability. Flavour profiles on offer from this grape vary significantly, from dark cherry and blackberry in younger wines to more evolved flavours of dried fruit, earthy notes and a savoury, smoky finish in aged wines.

In recent years there has been a conscious attempt to elevate the status of Barbera by many wine producers. These efforts include reduced yield farming, later harvesting and more advanced vinification practices. This has resulted in Barbera wines with smoother tannins, a fuller body and greater complexity.

Grown in various regions across the globe including Australia, Argentina and California, the Barbera grape expresses different character depending on the climate and soil in which it is grown. For instance, Barbera grown in warmer climates often has lower acidity and higher sugar levels, resulting in fruitier, fuller-bodied wines.

Interestingly, despite its robust color and acidity, the Barbera grape is considered by some to be a 'wine of the people'. This primarily stems from its sheer drinkability, the wide range of food it pairs well with, and its relatively low cost. To this day, the Barbera grape continues to encapsulate a delightful blend of tradition, innovation, and multi-faceted allure.

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