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Item Number: 7019

UPC: None

Country: USA
Region: California Sub Region: Central Coast
Appellation/AVA: Santa Barbara County
Vintage: 2011
Grape(s): Barbera
Type: Wine - Red
Bottle Size: 750ml Pack: 12
Closure: Cork
Alc by Vol(%): 13.5


About Barbera: As a grape varietal, Barbera has a long history, thought to perhaps be the "Grisa" grapes of medieval times and first documented as "Barbera" in the 1500’s. It is a hardy and affable grape that is much beloved in its homeland of the Piemonte region of Italy and indeed a part of everyday life there. There is an old saying that the grape impersonates the character of the Piemontese who cultivate it — robust and yet unassuming. In order to produce superior wine, Barbera has definite preferences to climates and soils. Santa Barbara’s long growing season, rocky soils and ocean-influenced climate is such a place.

Winemaking Notes: Each vineyard is vinified separately and aged in oak. Once the final blend is determined, the wines are racked from barrels to tank and allowed to intermingle and meld for an additional month prior to bottling. The result is a wine that is truly representative of Santa Barbara County and layered with loads of flavor and bright acidity.

Tasting Notes: A deep ruby color with amethyst highlights shines in the glass, and the first swirl leads to aromas of blackberries, black currant and toast with jam. These dark berry notes are mirrored on the palate, and joined by interesting nuances of blood orange, a hint of dried cherry and spicy components — Chinese Five Spice, white pepper and a suggestion of violets. Young mission figs, black cherries and a bit of black strap molasses are balanced by firm and bright acidity. The wine is mouth-filling and yet refreshing, with a crisp acidity and a pleasing finish replete with soft mocha-like tannins.