Wines Barbera d'Asti Poderi Rosso Giovanni - Barbera d'Asti Superiore Gioco dell Oca - 2018

Poderi Rosso Giovanni’s Barbera d’Asti Superiore Gioco dell’Oca 2018 is a classic expression of the Barbera grape from one of Piedmont’s most renowned appellations. Characteristically, Barbera d’Asti wines display a deep ruby hue and enticing aromatics of red and black cherries, plums, and subtle spice. The “Superiore” designation signals a selection from the better vineyards, with extended ageing—often in oak—which may bring additional notes of vanilla, toast, or sweet tobacco, while preserving vibrant acidity and supple tannic structure. The 2018 vintage in Piedmont was celebrated for its balance, providing ripe fruit flavours coupled with freshness, suggesting this wine will offer both power and finesse.

Asti is situated within Italy’s broader Piedmont region, an area celebrated worldwide for its fine red wines. Here, rolling hillsides and a continental climate—warm days and cool nights—enable grapes to ripen slowly, preserving acidity and aromatics. The area’s calcareous clay and sandy soils lend Barbera its signature freshness and mineral character. Piedmont’s deep winemaking tradition, refined over centuries, contributes to an impressive consistency and expressive style in its Barbera d’Asti appellation.

Barbera d’Asti Superiore, with its lively acidity and medium to full body, is an extremely versatile wine at the table. Regional pairings work beautifully, especially rich meat ragùs tossed with fresh egg pasta—think tajarin or agnolotti del plin—or the classic bagna cauda with anchovy and garlic. The wine’s fruit intensity and freshness also complement roast pork, grilled sausages, or hard cheeses such as Parmigiano Reggiano. Its balance of fruitiness and structure can even harmonise with hearty vegetable dishes or mushroom risotto.

To fully appreciate this wine, serve it at approximately 16-18°C. Decanting for an hour before tasting can help soften the tannins and reveal more complex aromas. This Barbera d’Asti Superiore is drinking well now but could also reward a few more years of patient cellaring, further enhancing its depth and integration.