Pale reddish in color with light intensity.
Light red fruits on the nose, and medium bodied with medium plus acidity.
Dry on the palate with nice complexity.
Showing raspberries, cherries, spices, peppercorn, light wood, coffee, herbs and light vegetables.
Tangy finish with round tannins and tangy pomegranates.
This 5 year old Barolo is young and elegant. Showing nice balance with good structure.
Has enough acidity to last it for a while. Will continue to age nicely in the next 10 to 15 years. Would be nice to revisit it in 7 years.
Easy drinking and better with food.
100% Nebbiolo grapes were aged for 18 months in large Slavonian oak barrels.
14% alcohol by volume.
90 points.
$45. — 2 months ago
Last had nearly two years ago, and this seems even more closed than then. Decanted 5 hours but didn’t really open all that much. Tons of cherry on the nose, which is nice. But the palate is quite unexpressive and the finish is overwrought with dusty tannins still. Another 5 years? — 3 months ago
Tannino totalmente evoluto, molto elegante, non molto lungo — 8 days ago
Impressive showing for this Monvigliero with cherry, strawberry, balsamic, savory spices, floral & tobacco notes — a month ago
Liked this Italian blend with spicy ragu. — 4 months ago
Freddy R. Troya
Barba – i Vasari “Old Vines” Montepulciano d’Abruzzo DOC – 2022
Abruzzo, Italy 🇮🇹
Overview
From one of Abruzzo’s most respected family producers, the Barba i Vasari Old Vines embodies the soulful depth of mature Montepulciano vineyards. Crafted from low-yielding old vines rooted in clay-limestone soils, this DOC wine bridges intensity and elegance, a fine showcase of what Abruzzo can achieve when tradition meets restraint.
Aromas & Flavors
Dark cherries, black plum, and crushed violets lead the way, followed by nuances of black pepper, cocoa, and a touch of sweet tobacco. Hints of dried herbs and vanilla complete the aromatic frame.
Mouthfeel
Medium to full-bodied, silky in texture yet structured with supple tannins. There’s a satisfying balance between ripe dark fruit and savory spice, culminating in a long, refined finish.
Food Pairings
Perfect with lasagna alla bolognese, grilled lamb chops, wild mushroom risotto, or aged pecorino.
Verdict
A beautiful expression of Montepulciano d’Abruzzo, intense yet approachable, generous but never overbearing. Old vines deliver concentration and charm in equal measure. Cheers!
Did You Know?
The “i Vasari” vineyards trace their origins to the 1700s and sit near Pescara, between the Adriatic Sea and the Apennines. This position brings cool coastal breezes that preserve acidity even in warmer years.
🍷 Personal Pick Highlight
A deliciously balanced Montepulciano that delivers both depth and drinkability. A genuine Italian gem I’d pour confidently for any gathering of Italian wine lovers. — 15 days ago