2015 Giuseppe E Figlio (Mauro) Mascarello Barbera d'Alba Scudetto

Giuseppe e Figlio (Mauro) Mascarello is one of the most admired estates in the Langhe region of Piedmont. The 42-acre estate is in Monchiero. It was founded in 1881 by Giuseppe Mascarello and each generation since has taken over the estate and made improvements. The current owner is Mauro Mascarello, who worked with his father, also a Giuseppe, until his father’s death. Mascarello’s flagship wine is its Barolo Monprivato, which comes from what Robert M. Parker Jr. calls the “superbly positioned Monprivato vineyard that is the source of (the estate’s) two top wines, the Barolo Monprivato and the Barolo Riserva Ca’ d’Morissio.” The estate also makes Barbera and Dolcetto. About 50,000 bottles are produced annually.

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.