Barbera D'Alba Superiore 2016

This is a streamlined and elegant wine with a tight bouquet of red fruit and earthy aromas. The 2016 Barbera d'Alba Superiore offers terrific intensity that remains impeccably balanced throughout. This is a lovely Barbera, and I am happily surprised because this vintage is not universally praised for the performance of this specific grape. The variety usually prefers extra warmth and sunshine. The team at Luigi Pira has done a top-notch job in a moderately cool vintage.

The 2016 Barbera d'Alba Superiore will thrill Giampaolo Pira's fans. Rich, layered and impeccable in its balance, the 2016 has so much to offer. Super-ripe dark plum, spice, bittersweet chocolate and new leather are all pushed forward in a potent, opulent Barbera that offers notable delineation to play off its more overt leanings.