Wines Barbera d'Alba Elio Sandri - 2018

Viniou Reviews

Elio Sandri's Barbera d'Alba DOC 2018 is a compelling example of the vibrant character that Barbera can achieve in the hands of a meticulous producer. This wine, made exclusively from Barbera grapes, displays the hallmark freshness and energy of the variety. The 2018 vintage benefited from a balanced growing season, resulting in ripe fruit yet retaining an appealing acidity. In the glass, expect a deep ruby hue typical of Barbera, with an expressive nose showing dark cherry, blackberry, and hints of violet, complemented by subtle notes of spice and earth derived from skillful vinification that favours a gentle extraction and, often, minimal oak intervention to let the grape's purity shine through.

The Barbera d'Alba appellation lies in the heart of Italy's Piedmont region, an area globally renowned for its exceptional red wines. The region enjoys a continental climate with marked diurnal temperature variations, which help develop the grapes' aromatic complexity while preserving acidity. The soils here, composed of calcareous clay and limestone, confer both finesse and structure to the wines. Piedmont's viticultural history stretches back centuries, with Barbera long regarded as the people's wine, valued for its food-friendly nature and early drinkability.

Given this wine's vibrant fruit profile and refreshing acidity, it pairs beautifully with a range of dishes. Traditional Piedmontese fare such as vitello tonnato (veal with tuna sauce) or agnolotti del plin (stuffed pasta) are classic matches, as are slow-cooked meats, roast pork with rosemary, or mushroom risotto. The wine's acidity also makes it a welcome companion for tomato-based pasta dishes and hard cheeses like Grana Padano or Parmigiano-Reggiano.

For optimal enjoyment, serve Elio Sandri’s Barbera d’Alba 2018 at 16-18°C, ideally after a short decantation. This allows the bright aromatics and plush fruit character to unfold, providing a perfect balance of freshness and depth.