2018 Albino Rocca Barbera dÁlba, Piedmont

Albino Rocca’s Barbera d’Alba is another small-volume cuvée, drawn from a single parcel of vines planted in 2004, rooted in the clay and limestone soils of San Rocco Seno d'Elvio—just outside Alba and on the edge of the Barbaresco area. This Barbera was raised entirely in tank and was bottled early in order to keep everything vibrant and fresh. Again, the quality of the excellent 2018 vintage shines through, and the wine is crammed with fleshy plum, violet and subtle herbs. There’s some good texture, while the varietal’s refreshing acidity is very well integrated.