2023 Billy Button The Affable Barbera, King Valley

A barbera that rocks! Year after year, this unassuming 'affable' grape knocks your socks off with its energy, its buoyant fruits and upfront honesty. Love the bright purple hues, the lifted aromas of red berries, morello cherry, mountain herbs, blackstrap licorice and the savoury hint of Dutch cocoa that translates effortlessly onto the palate. Sounds busy, but it melds together perfectly across a supple, textural base.

95 points Special Value Jeni Port Halliday winecompanion.com.au

From the Italian inspired heart of Victoria’s King Valley comes a Barbera that perfectly captures Billy Button’s relaxed but thoughtful style. Founded by Jo Marsh in 2012, Billy Button Wines has built a strong following for championing alternative varieties grown in north east Victoria’s cool alpine foothills. The King Valley, long known for its Italian heritage and diverse soils, provides warm days and cool nights that suit Barbera beautifully, preserving acidity while allowing generous fruit expression. The Affable Barbera lives up to its name, approachable, lively and effortlessly drinkable.

Bright ruby with purple flashes, the aromatics are vibrant and lifted. Red cherry, raspberry and plum lead, followed by hints of dried herbs, subtle spice and a faint earthy edge. There is a fresh, juicy character that signals both variety and region.

On the palate it is medium bodied and energetic, driven by Barbera’s naturally high acidity. Juicy red and dark berry fruit flows across soft tannins, making it supple and food friendly rather than heavy. Notes of sour cherry and gentle spice carry through to a clean, refreshing finish. It is a bright, modern take on Barbera with cool climate freshness and plenty of charm.

Pair with wood fired pizza, pasta with tomato and basil, grilled sausages, slow cooked lamb shoulder or aged pecorino. Best enjoyed in its youth over the next five to eight years to capture its vibrancy and lively character.