1999 Pio Cesare Barbera d'Alba

Pio Cesare, in Alba, Piedmont, was founded in 1881 by Pio Cesare and it is now owned and operated by the fifth generation of the family. Gambero Rosso, Italy’s most distinguished wine journal, notes that today Pio Cesare “invariably offers technically impeccable, traditionally styled wines…their forte is great reds, above all Barolo and Barbaresco, which perfectly embody their terroir.” The estate produces single vineyard wines as well as wines sourced from multiple parcels. The estate owns 130 acres of vineyards and produces about 400,000 bottles 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.