2021 Barbera d'Alba, Priòra, Superiore, Fratelli Alessandria, Piedmont, Italy

Barbera is planted extensively in Piedmont and south-west Lombardy and accounts for over 50% of the wine produced in the region. The majority is sold simply as Barbera del Piemonte, but the best wines are the DOCs, Barbera d'Alba and Barbera d'Asti. It ripens late (after Dolcetto but before Nebbiolo).

Barbera d'Alba is a red wine from Piedmont, Italy, made mainly from the Barbera grape. It's known for its vibrant red and black fruit flavours, refreshing acidity, and food-friendly nature. Versatile with Italian cuisine, it is a beloved choice in Piedmont despite being regularly overshadowed by Barolo and Barbaresco wines.

A moment’s reflection is required before understanding the wines of Fratelli Alessandria: all the estate’s vines (except their cru Gramolere) are in the commune of Verduno. Not usually bracketed with familiar and renowned communes, the village sits on the north-eastern border of the region. It’s almost more of an extension of neighbouring Roero, with sandier soils and a moderating influence from the Tanaro river. All this adds up to a lighter, more delicate and perfumed style of Barolo – of which Fratelli Alessandria are brilliant exponents.