Of all the grape varieties that hail from Italy, I think barbera is my favorite. I know, I know, that's a pretty serious statement but hear me out. I think it's a more versatile grape than either sangiovese or nebbiolo. Not to mention the quality to price ratio, which I consider to be higher as well. Here's the skinny. Barbera is an Italian red grape that is known for producing wines that have deep color, ripe fruit flavors, high acidity and remarkably low tannin levels. They can range from light and easy cocktail reds to more serious, powerful wines, that need time to mature in the bottle. The best examples hail from the Piedmont region in northern Italy, particularly the towns of Alba and Asti. Where Asti is known for their more serious, powerful barbera offerings, Barbea d'Alba is often a lighter, more user friendly version. I have to say, for me, warmer weather and Barbera d'Alba go hand in hand. Their lively acidity and bright ripe fruit flavors make them fantastic "deck" reds. Since they tend to be less tannic they go better with the lighter fair that starts to show up on our tables this time of year. No matter which style you explore, I think you'll find that barberas are extremely enjoyable. CHEERS!-Mitch
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