Wines Barbaresco Paitin - Barbera d'Alba - 2022

The 2022 Barbera d’Alba from the esteemed Paitin estate offers a compelling expression of the renowned Piedmontese grape, Barbera, crafted in the heart of the Piemonte region within the Barbaresco DOC. While Barbaresco is typically celebrated for its Nebbiolo-based wines, the local Barbera cultivated here benefits from the same meticulous attention to viticulture and winemaking. The 2022 vintage is indicative of a fresh and expressive year, yielding wines of vibrant character and youthful energy. The terroir features calcareous clay soils interspersed with layers of marl, which foster Barbera’s trademark bright acidity and depth. Paitin is known for its respect for tradition, often favouring controlled fermentation to preserve fruit purity, followed by a period of maturation in large neutral oak, lending subtle complexity without overwhelming the varietal’s natural aromatics.

The Piedmont region is defined by rolling hills, a continental climate moderated by the Alps, and soils rich in limestone and marl. This combination provides Barbera with the ideal conditions for ripening, allowing the grape to express its lively cherry and plum notes, accented by hints of spice and violet. The area boasts a long history of viticulture, with Barbera serving as a local staple due to its approachability and food-friendly acidity, complementing the more structured Nebbiolo wines.

This Barbera d’Alba pairs beautifully with dishes that mirror its vivacity and freshness. Classic regional pairings would include agnolotti del plin (small, meat-filled pasta), tajarin in a rich ragù, or a mushroom risotto. The wine also complements roasted poultry, grilled sausages, or even pizza with spicy salami. The marked acidity and supple tannins make it versatile with a wide range of Italian cuisine, especially tomato-based dishes and medium-aged cheeses such as Taleggio or Fontina.

For the best tasting experience, serve this wine slightly cool, at around 16–18°C. Open the bottle about 30 minutes prior to serving to allow the aromas to unfurl. The 2022 vintage is appealing in its youth, offering immediate pleasure, but a short cellaring of 2 to 4 years may enhance complexity and nuance.