Sottimano Barbera d'Alba Pairolero 2023
This is an exceptional Barbera from the Sottimano family who is well-known for high quality Barbaresco wines. While Nebbiolo may be 'king' in Piedmont (Nebbiolo is the grape used in Barbaresco and Barolo), the other two main red grapes of the region, Dolcetto and Barbera, are becoming more exciting due to the commitment of high quality growers such as Sottimano, Sandrone and Clerico. The 'Pairolero' Barbera is a blend of two different vineyards of Barbera in Neive; Curra' and Basarin.
Winemaker Andrea Sottimano uses only natural, indigenous yeasts in the winemaking and the malolactic fermentation is completed in French barrels, where the wine remains for approximately 15-16 months. 25% of the barrels used for aging are new, the remaining 75% have previously been used for up to 4 times. There is no filtering and no fining prior to bottling. Barbera has become one of our favorite 'everyday' reds with a full range of foods. Serve with white meats, light red meat dishes, bright tomato-based sauces, cheeses, olives, cured meats and more.
Wine Advocate
- wa93
The Sottimano 2018 Barbera d'Alba Superiore Pairolero offers more richness and concentration, painting a dark and sultry portrait of this popular grape from Piedmont. Fruit is drawn from old vines planted in the Basarin vineyard. Sottimano pushes for longer maceration times on all its wines, building the slow-release intensity and depth that characterizes this collection. Wild cherry and plum are backed by light spice and potting soil. The aromatic ensemble is elegant and lasting. There is hint of sweet berry on the fresh close.
Wine Spectator
- ws92
Aromatic, this red is eloquent, evoking saturated flavors of blackberry, black currant, violet and graphite. Vibrant and builds on the palate to the long, scintillating finish. Drink now through 2032. 1,000 cases made, 300 cases imported.
Vinous
- v90-92
Tasted from cask, the 2023 Barbera d'Alba Superiore Pairolero is bursting with dark red cherry fruit, leather, incense, tobacco, spice and dried flowers. It offers a captivating mix of vibrant fruit and a nervy structure. Barbera sees 20-25 months and then about ten months in cask.
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