2023 Mauro Veglio Barbera d'Alba

Mauro Veglio is a 30-acre estate in La Morra, in Langhe, in the Piedmont region. It is owned and operated by Mauro and Daniela Veglio, who both grew up in grape-growing families who sold their grapes to co-ops and negociants. But in 1992 the couple decided to produce their own wine. They significantly reduced the number of vines per acre and started making small quantities of Barolo. Today the estate produces about 60,000 bottles annually. It makes Barbera, Dolcetto and Nebbiolo but is most noted for its various Barolos. Gambero Rosso, Italy’s leading wine journal, has frequently given Veglio’s wines its highest rating of 3 glasses. Gambero Rosso wrote in 2010 that “nearly all (the estate’s) wines have achieved an unprecedented degree of balance and perfection.” Mauro Veglio is near the legendary estate of Elio Altare.

Barbera d’Alba is a DOC centered around the town of Alba, and it is considered home to some of the best wines made from the Barbera grape. Barbera is the most frequently planted grape in Piedmont, thanks to its adaptability and vigorous character. It is easier to grow and less susceptible to adverse weather than Nebbiolo, which is grown in neighboring appellations. Barbera in general has relatively low tannins but high acidity, and the wines tend to have flavors of ripe currant and cherry. The Barbera DOC was created in 1970 and the DOC wines must be 100% Barbera.

This red wine is from Piedmont. It is known for low tannins and high acidity, which makes it taste both light-bodied and rich. Barbera most often drinks early, but some variations can be cellared. The wine is relatively inexpensive and flexible for pairing.