2012 Cascina Chicco Barbera d'Alba Granera Alta, 3.0ltr

Cascina Chicco is based in the Roero appellation of Piedmont. It was established in the 1950s when Ernesto Faccenda bought property and began cultivating Nebbiolo and Barbera. Today his grandsons Enrico and Marco Faccenda own and operate the 100-acre estate, which produces about 350,000 bottles of wine a year. The estate is known for having helped revitalize the market for Arneis, the white wine of the Roero appellation. However Cascina Chicco also makes well-reviewed Barolo, Barbera and Langhe Nebbiolo. Gambero Rosso, Italy’s leading wine journal, notes that “lately, these wines have revealed a growing tendency toward tradition, in a production style aimed at emphasizing stronger bonds with terroir…..”

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.