2021 Barbera D'Alba, Superiore, Scarzello Giorgio e Figli, Piedmont, Italy

Scarzello Giorgio e Figli

Nestled in the Barolo DOCG zone of Italy's Piedmont region, Scarzello Giorgio e Figli, translating to "Scarzello George and Sons" in English, is a family-run winery with a rich history that spans several generations. Giorgio Scarzello, the founder, laid the foundation for what would become a respected name in Italian winemaking. Over the years, the family has upheld a commitment to producing high-quality wines that reflect the unique terroir of the Langhe region.

The vineyards are situated in some of the most prized locations within Barolo, known for their optimal soil composition and microclimates ideal for cultivating the Nebbiolo grape, the cornerstone of Barolo wines.

One of the distinguishing features of Scarzello Giorgio e Figli is their dedication to traditional winemaking methods. While embracing modern techniques where beneficial, they maintain a deep respect for the time-honoured practices that have defined Barolo winemaking for centuries. This commitment to tradition is evident in every aspect of their winemaking process, from vineyard management to grape selection, fermentation, and ageing.

The wines produced by Scarzello Giorgio e Figli are characterised by their elegance, complexity, and ability to age gracefully. The flagship wine, Barolo, is crafted with meticulous attention to detail, reflecting the nuances of the specific vineyard sites from which the grapes are sourced. In addition to Barolo, the winery also produces other varietals typical of the region, such as Barbera and Dolcetto.

Barbera d'Alba

Barbera d’Alba is a red wine made from the Barbera grape variety in the Alba region of Piedmont, Italy. It is one of the most well-known and widely produced Barbera wines in the Piedmont region and holds the prestigious Denominazione di Origine Controllata (DOC) designation.

The grape is a high-yielding variety known for its rich colour, high acidity, and low tannins. These characteristics make Barbera wines generally approachable and food-friendly, often described as lively, vibrant, and easy to drink.

The wines typically showcase red and black fruit flavours, such as cherry, raspberry, and blackberry, with some expressions exhibiting notes of plum and blueberry. The wines often have a pleasing acidity that gives them a refreshing and tangy quality. In some cases, subtle hints of spice, earthiness, and floral aromas may add to the wine’s complexity.

The oak ageing process is typical for many Barbera d’Alba wines, which can impart additional layers of flavour and texture, complementing the grape’s natural characteristics. However, some producers opt for stainless steel or neutral oak ageing to preserve the wine’s primary fruit flavours and freshness.

Barbera d’Alba is versatile when it comes to food pairings. Its bright acidity and medium body make it a fantastic match for various dishes. It pairs excellently with Italian cuisine, such as pasta dishes, risotto, pizza, and roasted meats. The wine’s acidity also allows it to pair well with more decadent and fatty foods, making it an excellent choice for savoury dishes.

While Barbera d’Alba is often overshadowed by the more renowned Barolo and Barbaresco wines of the Piedmont region, it remains a beloved and cherished wine among locals and enthusiasts. Its combination of approachability, versatility, and excellent value makes it an appealing choice for everyday enjoyment and a delightful introduction to the wines of Piedmont.

Barbera

Barbera is planted extensively in Piedmont and south-west Lombardy and accounts for over 50% of the wine produced in the region. The majority is sold simply as Barbera del Piemonte, but the best wines are the DOCs, Barbera d'Alba and Barbera d'Asti. It ripens late (after Dolcetto but before Nebbiolo).

The wines are usually ruby red in colour with notably low levels of tannins. They have a pronounced acidity that can be accentuated by overproduction. Barbera wines range from light, tart mouthwashers through to powerful, intensely flavoured wines that require extended cellaring.