At a glance

Producer

Pico Maccario

Region

Piedmont, Italy

Grape variety

Barbera

Wine type

Red

Body

Medium-bodied and Fruity

Sweetness

Dry

Typical price

$15-$22 USD

Tasting profile

Juicy red cherry, raspberry, plum, with floral and light spicy notes. Vibrant acidity, soft tannins, medium-bodied.

Evolution: Will gain subtle earthy and herbal complexity with short-term cellaring. Fruit dominates early; acidity remains lively.

At peak: At peak, expect primary fruit, delicate florals, and subtle secondary notes. Barbera’s hallmark freshness endures.

Structure

Acidity

Medium-high (typical of Barbera, providing freshness)

Tannins

Soft, gentle, moderate

Alcohol

13.5%-14% ABV (moderate)

Aging potential

2-5 years from vintage; primarily for youthful enjoyment

Drinking window

Peak drinking

2023 to 2025

Optimal window

2023 to 2026

Current status

Drinking well now, approachable and vibrant.

Current condition

Fresh, fruit-forward, with lively acidity and supple tannins.

Barbera d'Asti is generally crafted for early enjoyment, showcasing vibrant red fruit and lively acidity in youth. While modest cellaring adds complexity, its structure and style favor consumption within 3-5 years of vintage. Extended aging may diminish its hallmark freshness.

Food pairing

Antipasti, cured meats, tomato-based pastas, grilled sausage, pizza, roast chicken, mild cheeses.

Serving

Decant

Not required

Sustainability

Sustainability score: 7/10

Vineyards farmed with integrated pest management, minimal interventions, natural grass cover. Focus on water conservation, partial solar energy use at winery, light glass bottles to reduce packaging weight.

Pico Maccario takes measurable steps towards sustainability: integrated pest management limits pesticides, water/energy usage is optimized, and lighter packaging reduces emissions. The SQNPI certification demonstrates commitment to lower-impact viticulture, though lack of organic/biodynamic certification and transcontinental export limits the overall score. Practices place the winery ahead of many peers, but not at the forefront of global sustainability.