2020 Giuseppe Rinaldi Barbera d'Alba

Giuseppe Rinaldi is a 15-acre estate just outside the center of Barolo. It is owned by Giuseppe Rinaldi, a veterinarian by training who took over the family’s historic estate several decades ago. The Rinaldi family, which has operated the estate since the 19th century, now includes several adult children trained in oenology. The estate’s Barolos have won consistently high praise from reviewers, such as Gambero Rosso, Italy’s leading wine journal, which has often given Rinaldi Barolos the journal’s highest rating of three bicchiere, or three glasses. “Consistency, personality and terroir briefly summarize the distinguishing features of this leading winery…,” notes Gambero Rosso. Antonio Galloni now of Vinous wrote in 2010 that “Giuseppe Rinaldi’s Barolos are among the rarest and most difficult wines to source, as they are rapidly snapped up by the estate’s loyal, long-time clients and rarely appear at auction…”

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.