2024 Massolino Barbera d'Alba, Piedmont

Massolino Barbera d’Alba from Piedmont is a vibrant, polished and beautifully balanced expression of one of Italy’s most loved red varieties. The Massolino family, based in the historic village of Serralunga d’Alba, has been producing exceptional wines since 1896, and their Barbera captures both the generosity of the grape and the precision that defines this acclaimed Barolo producer. It’s a wine that speaks of tradition and place, offering charm, purity and real drinkability.

The grapes are sourced from estate vineyards surrounding Serralunga, where the calcareous marl and limestone soils lend natural freshness and structure. The fruit is harvested by hand and fermented in temperature-controlled stainless steel to preserve the variety’s bright aromatics and juicy texture. The wine is then matured for several months in large Slavonian oak casks to round the tannins and add subtle depth without masking the fruit.

In the glass it shows a deep ruby colour with violet hues. The nose is expressive and inviting, revealing black cherry, plum and raspberry with hints of violet, licorice and spice. On the palate it is medium bodied and silky, with lively acidity that gives shape and precision to the ripe red fruit. The finish is long and savoury, carrying a touch of mineral and dried herb that reflects the limestone soils of Serralunga.

Massolino Barbera d’Alba is an exceptionally versatile food wine, pairing beautifully with pasta al ragù, grilled meats, pizza, or aged cheeses like Parmigiano Reggiano. It also complements mushroom risotto and Mediterranean dishes with tomato and herbs. Best enjoyed over the next five to eight years, it will evolve gracefully, gaining earthy and savoury complexity with age.