2008 Sottimano Barbera d'Alba Pairolero

Sottimano is the life’s work of Rino and Anna Sottimano. Rino earned a degree in enological studies in the late 1960s, and he and his wife Anna immediately embarked on their own winemaking venture in Cottà. Over the decades they slowly acquired 45 acres, divided into five vineyards. Today the family team includes son Andrea and daughter Elena. Sottimano produces Barbaresco, Barbera, Dolcetto and Langhe Nebbiolo. About 85,000 bottles are produced annually. The family has always taken a very careful, hands-off, natural approach to winemaking and grape growing. Gambero Rosso routinely award its highest rating of 3 Glasses to the estate’s several Barbarescos. Wine Advocate has also been impressed. One of its reviewers wrote: “I can’t say enough good things about the Sottimano family and the work they have done over the years to firmly establish themselves among Barbaresco’s top growers. This is one of the few places in Piedmont where every wine is consistently delicious. The only question is how delicious.”

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.