2022 Cordero di Montezemolo Barbera d'Alba DOC, Piedmont

This is fresh and dark-fruited with hints of cocoa and sweet licorice. Medium-bodied with plenty of ripe dark berry and floral undertones. Tannins are ripe and crunchy with a vivid finish. Delicious. Drink now.

92 points jamessuckling.com

From estate vineyards around La Morra, this Barbera shows a polished, energetic expression of the grape shaped by one of Barolo’s most respected families. Cordero di Montezemolo treats Barbera with the same seriousness as Nebbiolo, focusing on site expression and balance rather than simple fruitiness. The rolling hills of Piedmont provide warm days for ripeness and cool nights for acidity, giving the wine its signature brightness and lift.

Winemaking aims to highlight Barbera’s natural vibrancy. Fermentation is managed to preserve fresh fruit and colour, while careful maturation adds texture without softening the wine’s lively edge. The result is a style that feels modern and precise, combining generosity with structure.

Deep ruby in colour, the aromas open with blackberry, cherry and plum, followed by violet and a faint spicy note. The palate is medium bodied and juicy, with dark berry fruit wrapped in soft tannins and bright acidity. Flavours of cherry and black fruit flow into a clean, mouthwatering finish that keeps the wine agile and refreshing.

It pairs effortlessly with pasta, pizza, grilled meats and tomato based dishes. Delicious now for its energy, it will hold comfortably for five to eight years, developing savoury nuance.

This is Barbera in a refined Piedmont voice, vibrant, silky and built for the table.