2022 Poderi Aldo Conterno Conca Tre Pile Barbera d'Alba, Piedmont

A restrained barbera with aromas of citrus, red currants, cinnamon, red cherries and touches of smoke, licorice and graphite. Full-bodied with supple fruit, a dense palate, velvety tannins and crisp, precise acidity. Warming yet balanced chocolaty finish. Drink or hold.

94 points jamessuckling.com

Barbera reaches impressive depth in the Langhe hills, and the Conca Tre Pile vineyard has become one of the most celebrated sites for the variety. Poderi Aldo Conterno, founded in the late 1960s by Aldo Conterno in Monforte d’Alba, is best known for its legendary Barolo but also produces remarkable expressions of other Piedmont varieties. The Conca Tre Pile vineyard lies on well exposed slopes with limestone and clay rich soils that bring both concentration and structure to Barbera. Careful vineyard work and precise winemaking allow the fruit to express both power and freshness.

Deep ruby with vibrant purple tones, the aromas are rich and expressive. Ripe blackberry, dark cherry and plum rise from the glass alongside notes of violet, sweet spice and subtle cocoa. Hints of vanilla and toasted oak add further complexity.

The wine carries impressive intensity with a core of dark berry fruit supported by Barbera’s naturally bright acidity. Layers of cherry, plum and spice unfold through the wine, while oak maturation adds depth and a velvety texture. The finish is long and persistent with lingering notes of dark fruit and gentle spice.

Slow braised beef, grilled sausages, pasta with rich ragù or aged pecorino complement the wine’s richness and acidity. With its concentration and structure, Conca Tre Pile Barbera d’Alba will continue to develop beautifully for ten to fifteen years, gaining greater savoury complexity with time.