In this article, we will share some interesting facts and other tidbits related to Barbera wine. This is wine made from the Barbera grape, which is the third most planted variety of grape in Italy as of the year 2000. It is known to produce good yields, and is made of low tannins, a higher level of acidity, and produces wine of deep color. Surprisingly, though, it is a wine that tastes both rich as well as light-bodied. While the pigments of this grape stain the wine so that it is dark, the strawberry and sour cherry notes give it almost a “juicy” taste.

A “New World” Barbera wine will have flavors of vanilla, strawberry, plum, anise, nutmeg, and of course, cherry. An “Old World” Barbera will have a flavor profile that is full of cherry, herbs, spice, black incense, raspberry, and more. Of course, when it comes to wine, it is important to know which dishes pair the best with the drink. When it comes to a complementary pairing, Barbera wine is excellent with a hearty dish or one that contains high tannin due to its bright acidity. A wine like this will be the perfect complement to dark meat, mushrooms, root vegetables, braised greens, herbs, and herbaceous cheese.

What are some interesting facts surrounding Barbera wine? Consider these:

1. While Cabernet Sauvignon is a more popular choice of wine than Barbera, it is far younger than the old Barbera wine. In fact, this is a grape that has been around since the 7th century, while Cabernet Sauvignon got its start during the 17th century.

2. Unfortunately, Barbera wine has been the center of a scandal. It was the year 1986 when Time reported a scandal that resulted in uncovering the truth regarding illegal wine additives that were popping up around Europe during the 1980s. What happened? Sadly, after drinking Odore Barbera, eight Italians lost their lives while a further thirty individuals were hospitalized.

3. If you ever get a craving for sparkling Barbera wine, you will have to head on over to the old country itself as this is a beverage that is rarely seen outside of Italy. However, if you are ever faced with the opportunity to try this sparkling wine you will find that it has a freshness similar to Beaujolais or Lambrusco.

4. Despite the fact that the Barbera grape is a thriving variety that is able to produce high yields, even up to 5 tons per acre, it has been found that the best wine is made from smaller clusters that are harvested from vineyards that are well pruned.

5. You don’t have to wait very long in order to enjoy a Barbera wine after it has been bottled. In fact, while other wines may require aging for many years, even decades, a decent Barbera wine will be able to be enjoyed between 2 – 4 years after bottling.

If you want to enjoy a wine that offers a richness as well as light flavor, then you simply must try a decadent Barbera wine.