Barbera D' Asti, best of Piemonte

Famiglia Berta, ‘1842 Valbeccara’ Barbera d’Asti Superiore 

Is Barbera the best-kept secret in Italian red wine?

This high-acid red grape is at home in the hills of Piedmont. This northwest corner of Italy is most known for the legendary, age-worthy wines made from Nebbiolo, namely Barolo and Barbaresco. While Nebbiolo may be Piedmont’s most high-profile variety, ask most locals and you’ll find it’s Barbera that often graces the table over a meal. The grape often has flavors of cranberry and earth which go great with braised meat and pasta.

During a visit to Piedmont in 2019, we met a small, family-run winery Berta Paolo (Famiglia Berta). They focus on Barbera and produce several types, from everyday bottles to cellar-worthy wines. The Famiglia Berta, ‘1842 Valbeccara’ Barbera d’Asti Superiore is in between.

The Famiglia Berta, ‘1842 Valbecarra’ Barbera d’Asti Superiore 2017 is a delicious, juicy Barbera. It was aged in barrel for six months. There are classic flavors of cranberry, raspberry, mineral, earth, and chestnut. Plush and fruity on the palate with supple tannins. Round and easy to drink with a hint of complexity.

by Exotic Travel