2024 Bel Colle Barbera D'Alba Ape Reale DOC, Piedmont

A bright and energetic Barbera that captures the essence of Alba's rolling hills. Fresh black cherries and wild berries lead with an appealing juiciness. The palate shows good balance between fruit and acidity, making it an effortless companion for the table. Simple, direct, and satisfying in its youthful charm.

Jeff Porter wineenthusiast.com
 
 

Barbera has always been the heartbeat grape of everyday Piedmont and Bel Colle’s Ape Reale shows just how compelling the variety can be when grown on the rolling limestone hills around Alba. Founded in the late 1970s and working closely with dedicated local growers, the winery focuses on producing honest, expressive wines that reflect regional character without unnecessary embellishment. The Ape Reale bottling comes from well positioned vineyard parcels where warm days build ripe fruit while cooler nights help preserve the lively acidity that defines great Barbera.

A deep ruby colour with vibrant purple flashes fills the glass. Aromas feel generous and inviting with black cherry, plum and blueberry layered alongside violet, sweet spice and a gentle savoury earthiness. There is a youthful energy that makes the wine immediately appealing. The palate is juicy and medium to full bodied, dark berry fruit flowing effortlessly across bright, mouthwatering acidity that keeps everything fresh and lifted. Subtle notes of liquorice, cocoa and warm stone bring added depth, while soft tannins guide the wine into a long, fruit driven yet savoury finish.

This is the kind of Barbera that seems made for convivial meals and relaxed company. Think hearty lasagne, grilled sausages with fennel, slow braised beef or rustic mushroom dishes shared around a bustling table. Drinking beautifully now for its vibrant fruit and charm, though it will hold nicely for four to six years as savoury complexity begins to build. A characterful and authentic Barbera d’Alba that delivers pure Piedmontese pleasure.