It’s been a long time since my wife and I were in Italy.  I can’t remember if we visited the Piedmont region but, being an area that grows the third most planted grape variety in Italy, I reckon I’d remember which suggests we probably didn’t.  I would have to get out all the brochures and photos we have to work out if we did, and that would involve a lot of time and the searching of cupboards.  I think I’d prefer to spend the time drinking more Barbera.  Have a look at the photo below; that’s just one of the many I found via Google.  Piedmont looks like an amazing place and has now been added to my growing bucket list of places to visit.

I can see why I love this variety.  The aromas trigger your senses immediately.  They are fresh, lively and it’s all about the fruit (think red cherries and black currants).  Very similar when tasting it too.  It is (those words again) fresh, lively, juicy and fruit forward on the medium bodied palate.  Black fruits, dark cherries and subtle plum and herbal characters present to me.  The oak is there but only a minor player; the tannins are lovely and soft, and the expected acidity sits nicely with every component of this wine.  It’s deliciously good drinking and great value.

Angullong Wines Website

Region: Orange, NSW     Price: $28     Source: Sample thanks to Angullong Wines and Define Wine