2005 Cappellano Barbera d'Alba Gabutti

Cappellano is one Piedmont’s most heralded producers of Barolo. It was run for decades by the legendary Teobaldo Cappellano, who until his death in 2009 was considered one of the last great traditionalists in Piedmont. He was also a winemaker who lived entirely by his own rules. In 1983 he banished wine writers from his cellars unless they agreed to forgo the standard numerical rating system for his wines. Writers started describing his wines but not giving them scores. After Teobaldo’s death his son Augusto took over the estate, and, following in his father’s footsteps, Augusto has continued his father’s policy of demanding reviews without scores.

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.