Noisy Water Winery

Barbera is particularly celebrated in the regions of Asti and Alba in Piedmont. These areas are like the Hollywood of Barbera – if grapes could have a red carpet, this is where they’d walk it. The majority of Barbera wines are varietals, meaning they're made from a single Barbera grape variety. This singular focus brings out the best in Barbera, making it a versatile choice for any occasion.
When you’re out with friends, maybe feeling a tad overwhelmed by an extensive wine list, just remember this: you can never go wrong with Barbera. It’s like finding the perfect outfit that looks good no matter the occasion.

So what is it that makes Barbera stand out? It's all in the balance. Barbera is high in acidity but low in tannins, which means it develops its flavors more quickly than other wines. This unique trait makes Barbera a delightful choice as a young wine – she's vibrant, fruit-forward, and oh-so-drinkable.

When it comes to Barbera in winemaking, it's a bit like choosing your adventure– no matter which path you take, the destination is pure deliciousness. Winemakers love playing around with Barbera. Some ferment or mature it in oak barrels, which brings out richer fruit and spice notes like dark cherry and clove. Others prefer stainless steel tanks, keeping the wine's natural tart and fruity profile intact.
 

Volcanic soils and the warm Mediterranean climate imbue Aglianico with its distinct character. Think about these grapes basking in the golden sun, and soaking up the minerals from ancient volcanic deposits. This, dear reader, is terroir at its finest!

In Campania, Aglianico shines as the famous Taurasi, while in Basilicata, it dazzles as Aglianico del Vulture. These regions celebrate Aglianico with a fervor that’s palpable. And rightly so! These wines are often compared to Italy’s illustrious Barolos (made from Nebbiolo grapes), yet they come at a fraction of the price. Talk about a wine lover’s dream!

Aglianico is like a superstar of Italian wines. It’s a black grape that crafts wines with a remarkable structure and depth. Known for its full-bodied profile, Aglianico delivers a sensory journey that’s both robust and refined. 

Here’s what makes it stand out:

1. High Tannins & Acidity: These give Aglianico its powerful structure. Yes, it can be a bit harsh in its youth, but oh, the magic that happens with age!

2. Flavor Profile: Think black fruits, violets, herbs, leather, and smoky notes on the nose. On the palate, it’s a luxurious blend of plum, blackberries, coffee, chocolate. Yes, PLEASE!

Patience is a virtue, especially with Aglianico. This wine is built to age, often needing 3 to 5 years to soften its tannic bite. But the reward that comes with wines that can evolve beautifully over a decade or more, is that they reveal layers of complexity and balance. 

However, while traditional Aglianico wines demand patience, modern winemaking techniques are making some versions more approachable upon release. So, whether you’re a seasoned collector or a curious newbie, there’s an Aglianico out there ready to delight your taste buds.