With a very nice 12.5% alcohol and costing under $16, the 2018 Villa Della Rose Barbera D’Asti once again proved that Asti Barbera is lighter and more acidic than examples for Alba. It was very drinkable and scored 14+ points on the Dionysian scale.

Still purple with balanced tannins, the wine reflected some green tea from possibly unripe grapes. It was medium weight and had fruit up front but no back palate.

Hard cheese or lean red meats cut back on the tannins and helped enhance the flavors and aromas.


The wine will age for some years and soften, but it’s best to drink early on with a cheese-based Italian dish. In Vino Veritas.