1997 Paitin de Pasquero(Elia) Barbera d'Alba Serra Boella

Paitin de Pasquero is in Neive. The 43-acre estate was founded in the late 18th century by Benedetto Elia and it has remained in the family ever since. Today it is run by Secondo Pasquero-Elia and his sons Giovanni and Silvano. Paitin produces Barbera d’Alba, Barbaresco, Nebbiolo, Dolcetto d’Alba and Arneis. Some 80,000 bottles are produced annually. Gambero Rosso, Italy’s leading wine journal, has frequently awarded 3 glasses, the journal’s highest rating, to Paitin’s Barbaresco Sori Paitin.

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.