Mark LaClair

9.2

2010 now tawny in color. Very dry with secondary aromas of oak, nuts, some earth, but maintaining a good degree of dark fruits. Paired with homemade brick oven pizza. True Tuscan gem here. Strong but smooth tannins match the pepperoni and peppers. — 5 months ago

ESF

9.2

See previous note, some time has really improved this wine - represents outstanding QPR. Again, very international style Rioja - super generous & delicious — 4 years ago

Jonas Johansson

9.5

I guess I gave fallen for this gem. — 5 years ago

Sipping Fine Wine

9.4

Dark Ruby with aromas of black fruits and complex notes of spice, herb and earth. It was a cooler season in 2010, resulting in higher acidity that made this wine big and needed a lot more time in the bottle, than the last time I tried in order to soften the massive tannin structure. On the palate plum and blackberry flavors with some nutty notes, wet stone and earthy herbs show harmoniously on the palate. Full body, fine tannins with a deep rich long finish. A Gem! Tasting well now! — 6 years ago

Freddy R. Troya

9.1

Macchia – “Delicious” Barbera – 2023
Heaven’s Vines, Lodi – USA 🇺🇸

Overview
100% Barbera from Lodi. an Italian indigenous grape known for its naturally high acidity, juicy fruit, and casual drinkability. Macchia Winery, celebrated for producing over 20 distinct styles of Zinfandel, also showcases its versatility with Italian varieties. Consistently recognized with domestic and international awards, the winery brings Barbera into the spotlight with this vibrant estate bottling.

Aromas & Flavors
Ripe red cherries, plum, blackberry compote, and a touch of vanilla and sweet spice. Fresh, fruity, and forward with that classic Barbera brightness.

Mouthfeel
Medium-bodied with lively acidity and a smooth, easygoing finish. Juicy fruit drives the palate, making it approachable and highly sip-worthy.

Food Pairings
Perfect with pizza, pasta with tomato-based sauces, grilled sausages, roasted vegetables, or charcuterie. A true “any day, any time” red.

Verdict
A fun, approachable, and fruit-driven Barbera with Macchia’s signature Lodi generosity. Casual enough for weeknight sipping yet polished enough to show the quality behind this estate-grown wine.

Did You Know?
Barbera is one of Italy’s most widely planted red grapes, cherished for its fresh acidity and versatility. In California, Lodi’s warm days and cool delta breezes help the variety express generous fruit while maintaining balance. — 6 months ago

Ron R

10

WNH NY, 2021.
The crew gifted me this gem for a major life-event birthday. Love it. Such a nice touch. I’m humbled. In the best place of my life ♥️ — 5 years ago

with Diana, Mike and 7 others

Nick

9.2

Absolutely caught me off guard. This was a simple gift from family. Now my wife and I are scrambling to buy another bottle. A phenomenal blend. Full bodied and spice. I would love for someone who actually knows what they’re talking about to try and this lol — 4 years ago

Nathan Renfro

9.5

Inky dark purple. Solid fruit. Short decant all that is needed but this wine sings after an hour plus. Ripe blackberry and plum, some black cherry. Solid acidic backbone with medium tannins. Smooth chocolate finish. This wine is a gem of a deal from Realm. — 5 years ago

Jason Troendle

9.4

Sweet and not too strong — 6 years ago

with Mandy

Ericsson

9.2

Wine of the night. Impressive nose. Full, bold and round. A gem. — 6 years ago