2013 Barbera d'Alba
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Tasting notes
Utterly magnificent in the glass, 2013 Barbera d’Alba Francia presents a rich, almost demi-glace like texture that envelops the palate. Sweet red cherry, pomegranate, hard candy, rose petal and wild flowers all flesh out effortlessly. The 2013 has the energy of a cool, late-ripening vintage, but with striking inner sweetness and depth. Elegant, restrained and sophisticated, the 2013 is another real gem from Roberto Conterno. This is just about as majestic as Barbera gets.
Critic scores
Average Score
Antonio Galloni, Vinous
Antonio Galloni, Vinous
More reviews and scores
Conterno's 2013 Barbera d'Alba Francia is dark, piercing and intensely mineral. Graphite, smoke, black cherries and crushed rocks open up in a powerful, intense Barbera that is going to need at least a few years in bottle to settle down. The Francia Barbera is usually quite savory and mineral. In 2013, those qualities are pushed forward, with the vibrancy acidity of the vintage front and center. The 2013 will appeal most to readers who enjoy pulsating, tense Barberas. Hints of violet and lavender add the final nuances of complexity.
About the producer
Giacomo Conterno is arguably Barolo’s most celebrated estate. While most famous for its Monfortino Riserva, the quality found in every bottling of Nebbiolo and Barbera at this address makes them a benchmark producer for both varieties.