Montalbera calls its Barbera 'Solo Acciaio' (only steel) to show that it rebels against the majority of Barberas on the market today, which are all oaked. Instead, this is a wine which is extremely elegant, fresh and supple, with the fruity punch only obtained from harvesting slightly overripe grapes coupled with slow maturation in steel vats and then in the bottle. Traditional red wine vinification is used; with pomace soaking in must for no fewer than 10 days. The wine is then matured solely in steel tanks and then in the bottle, positioned horizontally for at least 3 months.

Intense ruby-red in colour withshades of purple and violet, the nose on this Barbera is wonderfully intense with characteristic hints of blueberries and black cherry jam. The vibrant acidity on the palate is typical of Barbera, but sits harmoniously with a lovely, soft, medium body  and persuasive flavours of forest fruit jam and juicy cherries along with notes of black pepper and bright spices.

A wild boar ragu perhaps!