Wines Barbera d'Asti The Society's - 2021

Viniou Reviews

The Society’s Barbera d’Asti 2021 is an expressive red wine from the heart of Piedmont, specifically the Barbera d’Asti DOC. Crafted predominantly from the Barbera grape, a varietal cherished in northern Italy for its lively acidity and vibrant fruit-forward character, this 2021 vintage benefits from a relatively cool growing season. The result is a wine that showcases freshness and bright red berry flavours, especially cherry and raspberry, with subtle notes of violet and a touch of spice. Vinification is generally in stainless steel vats, aiming to preserve the pure, exuberant fruit profile and the natural acidity that are signatures of Barbera wines. Tannins remain supple and unobtrusive, making for an approachable yet refreshing style ideal for early enjoyment.

Piedmont, nestled in northwestern Italy at the foothills of the Alps, is famed for its rolling hills, diverse microclimates, and an extraordinary mosaic of soils—mainly clay and limestone with some sandy patches—imparting structure and complexity to the wines. Barbera d’Asti specifically thrives in this terroir, benefiting from ample sun and significant diurnal temperature variation. This alternation between warm days and cool nights encourages optimal ripeness while preserving acidity, which is the hallmark of quality Barbera. The region’s viticultural heritage dates back centuries, and it is renowned not just for Barbera, but also for being the home of some of Italy’s most esteemed appellations.

Culinary-wise, the energetic, juicy style of The Society’s Barbera d’Asti makes it wonderfully versatile at the table. It pairs harmoniously with tomato-based pasta dishes, such as tagliatelle al ragù or classic penne all’arrabbiata, as well as pizza Margherita. Its natural acidity and moderate tannins also complement traditional Piedmontese fare like agnolotti del plin (stuffed pasta) and bagna cauda (an anchovy and garlic dip with vegetables). It works arrestingly well with cured meats, grilled sausages, or roast chicken—any dish benefitting from a wine with verve and fruit.

For optimal enjoyment, serve this Barbera d’Asti at 16-18°C. A brief decanting for 30 minutes can help open up its aromatic bouquet. Enjoy it over the next few years while its youthful vibrancy is at its peak.