1966 Marchesi di Barolo Barbera d'Alba

Marchesi di Barolo is a historic producer in Barolo, in Italy’s Piedmont region. The estate traces its lineage to the early 19th-century marriage of a French aristocrat, Giulia Vittorina Colbert, to an Italian aristocrat, the Marquis Carlo Tancredi di Barolo. By the mid-19th century the estate’s Barolos were highly sought after. Today the 250-acre estate is owned by the family of Ernesto Abbona. The winery produces Barolo, Barbaresco, Nebbiolo, Barbera, Dolcetto and other varietals. Gambero Rosso, Italy’s leading wine journal, calls the wines of Marchesi di Barolo “a lodestar in the vast constellation of Langhe wines.” Gambero Rosso has awarded the producer several 3 Bicchieri awards – the highest possible rating - for its Barolos.

Barbera d’Alba is a DOC centered around the town of Alba, and it is considered home to some of the best wines made from the Barbera grape. Barbera is the most frequently planted grape in Piedmont, thanks to its adaptability and vigorous character. It is easier to grow and less susceptible to adverse weather than Nebbiolo, which is grown in neighboring appellations. Barbera in general has relatively low tannins but high acidity, and the wines tend to have flavors of ripe currant and cherry. The Barbera DOC was created in 1970 and the DOC wines must be 100% Barbera.

This red wine is from Piedmont. It is known for low tannins and high acidity, which makes it taste both light-bodied and rich. Barbera most often drinks early, but some variations can be cellared. The wine is relatively inexpensive and flexible for pairing.