At a glance

Producer

Marchesi di Barolo (Abbona family)

Region

Piedmont, Italy

Grape variety

Barbera

Wine type

Red

Body

Medium-bodied and Fruity

Sweetness

Dry

Typical price

$14-$18 USD retail

Tasting profile

Juicy red cherry, raspberry, plum, subtle spice and violets. Medium body, mouthwatering finish, light oak influence, fresh and energetic.

Evolution: With modest cellaring (1-3 years), fruit mellows, earthy and herbal nuances emerge, enhanced integration of components.

At peak: At peak, expect balanced acidity, softened texture, harmonious mid-palate where fruit and subtle savory notes are integrated.

Structure

Acidity

Bright, signature Barbera acidity

Tannins

Medium-light, silky

Alcohol

13.5% (typical for Barbera from this zone)

Aging potential

Best young, may develop subtle tertiary notes over 3-5 years

Drinking window

Peak drinking

2023 to 2025

Optimal window

2023 to 2026

Current status

Approachable now, suitable for short-term cellaring

Current condition

Very fresh, vibrant fruit, retaining good structure, primary and secondary aromas present

Barbera from Monferrato is prized for accessibility and fresh fruit. 2021 vintage quality allows for brief cellaring, but the wine's structure and style recommend drinking young to preserve vibrancy. Aging beyond 4-5 years is atypical and not advised.

Food pairing

Excellent with pasta al ragù, pizza, grilled pork, roasted poultry, or antipasti (charcuterie, aged cheese). Pairs well with tomato-based sauces and moderate spice.

Serving

Decant

Not required

Sustainability

Sustainability score: 6/10

Producer has implemented environmentally conscious vineyard management including partial organic practices, reduced chemical treatments, cover cropping, manual harvest in some parcels, and efforts to reduce water and energy usage at winery. Transitioning part of vineyards to organic in recent years, but not all holdings certified. Packaging is standard lightweight glass with recyclable materials.

While the Abbona family and Marchesi di Barolo have made some progress integrating sustainable practices (reduced input, vineyard biodiversity, natural grass cover, moderate-to-light bottles), as of 2024 their Barbera del Monferrato does not carry third-party sustainability or organic certifications. As a mid-size traditional Piedmontese producer with expanded international reach, carbon footprint from overseas shipping and no zero-emissions target lowers the overall assessment. However, continued moves toward organic conversion and waste reduction are positive signs.