($35):  Plantings of Barbera in Oregon, let alone in the Rogue Valley, must be miniscule.  The 2018 Oregon Vineyard and Winery Report doesn’t even mention the grape in their detailed statistics.  Judging from this wine, more wineries will be planting it.  Immediately appealing, this wine combines alluring spice with bright red fruit flavors.  Fresh, juicy acidity keeps this mid-weight wine lively while a supple texture makes it easy to enjoy now.  It’s a charming wine delivering the liveliness of Barbera without a trace of astringency.  Bring on the pasta with a hearty, tomato-based sauce.
94 Michael Apstein May 12, 2020