The inclusion of 23% Aglianico means that this is not like any Barbera we’ve ever produced. The cherrybark opening is totally unexpected—that dark woodsiness and purpleblack fruit. Well-grown Barbera brings operatic fruit, in a slim, vibrant figure. We have much less experience with Aglianico, but count on it to bring yet more deep fruit and distinctive aromatics, atop serious tannins and its own pronounced acidity. In the alchemy of this blend, then, we’d anticipate the mysterious revelation of a novel aromatic harmony, breadth and texture from the tannin brought by Aglianico’s minority stake, all supporting a spire of juicy acidity that—at least in a ripe year—doesn’t challenge credibility.
Brian McCormick
