At a glance

Producer

Massolino

Region

Piedmont, Italy

Grape variety

Barbera

Wine type

Red

Body

Medium-bodied and Fruity

Sweetness

Dry

Typical price

$18-$28 USD

Tasting profile

Juicy red cherry, raspberry, and plum with hints of violet, gentle spice, lively acidity, supple tannin, and a smooth finish.

Evolution: Will maintain brightness and structure over 2-3 years; evolves towards softer fruit notes and a rounder mouthfeel with time, but loses vibrancy if aged too long.

At peak: Fresh, aromatic fruit and balanced palate are at their best within 1-3 years post-release.

Structure

Acidity

Medium-high (zippy, refreshing)

Tannins

Low to moderate

Alcohol

13-14% ABV (typical)

Aging potential

Best consumed young but can hold for a few years thanks to its acidity; not meant for extended aging.

Drinking window

Peak drinking

1 to 3

Optimal window

4

Current status

Ready to drink now; this non-vintage Barbera d'Alba is designed for immediate enjoyment and should be consumed within a few years of purchase.

Current condition

Fresh, vibrant, expressive of youthful fruit

Non-vintage Barbera d'Alba from Massolino is made for early consumption, capturing the grape's fresh acidity and bright fruit. Its structure allows short-term holding but lack of significant tannin or oak means it will not develop further complexity with cellaring. Enjoy in youth.

Food pairing

Excellent with cured meats, salumi, pizza, tomato-based pastas, roast chicken, pork, eggplant parmesan, hard cheeses.

Serving

Serving temperature

16-18°C / 61-64°F

Decant

Not required

Sustainability

Sustainability score: 7/10

Integrated pest management, grass cover between rows, minimal chemical use, water conservation efforts, focus on ecosystem health. Massolino invests in soil health and biodiversity in the vineyard.

Massolino demonstrates a strong commitment to environmentally responsible farming, with efforts to reduce chemical input, maintain soil health, and work in harmony with their Barolo and Barbera vineyards. Though not certified organic or biodynamic, they pursue sustainable practices on a local level and are recognized in Italy for progressive agriculture. Bottlings are environmentally conscious but mainstream export does involve typical carbon costs for midrange Italian reds.