Cantina del Lupo Barbera d'Asti DOCG 2023

An easy-drinking, lighter, fresher style of Barbera from one of the pioneers of organic farming in Piedmont, the Rovero winery. This fruit-forward Barbera feels more serious than many of the Barberas coming out of Asti. Rather than light red fruit, the Cantina Del Lupo shows fairly concentrated dark berry fruit on the nose with an herbal tinge to it. The wine is a regal purple color that shines out of the glass, with aromas of spiced red cherries, raspberries, tart plum and wildflowers. The palate is smooth and juicy with bright acidity, mixed wild berries and savory herbs wrapped neatly within the wine's near-perfect structure of well-integrated tannins and a fruity, refreshing finish.

Over the last century, the Rovero family has produced lots of wine, amaro and grappa from their organic vineyards and orchards. Brothers Claudio & Michelino do the viticulture, while their sons Enrico & Simone make the wine and the spirits. Sixty percent of their vineyards are comprised of Barbera, which goes into several brandies and liqueurs, and this well-priced Barbera d'Asti. Balancing the edge of easy-drinking and profound, Cantina del Lupo is great for pizza night or backyard grilling. Serve at cellar temperature.