Varietal
Barbera is a dynamic and versatile grape variety that originated in the Piedmont region of Italy. Referred to as the ãpeopleâs wineä, Barbera accounts for about 40% of all wine produced in that region. A vigorous and versatile variety, Barbera can display a broad range of styles reflective of its specific microclimate or vinification. It is known, in particular, for its deep ruby color, full body and approachable tannins. In California, Barberaâs popularity is growing due to its versatility and the increased interest in Italian wines and cuisine.

Vintage
2001 may be remembered as a comeback vintage. After cool and late vintages from Î98 through Î00 we welcomed a warmer, earlier harvest. The growing season began with a late frost that damaged grapes in locations where frost usually isnât a concern. Few vineyards were affected but in those few cases, damage was severe. Once over that hurdle the growing season was much improved, bloom saw nearly perfect conditions for fruit set and we had a long, warm summer. Like so many harvests 2001 had its ups and downs - a heat spike in late August and early September drove sugar levels ahead of flavor development and all varieties were looking like they would ripen at once. On September 9th things cooled down through the end of the month which allowed flavors to develop in red varieties and gave time to harvest early reds. On the 1st and 2nd of October the heat came back to push the late reds over the hump. The last lots of grapes were crushed by mid-October to mark the earliest finish since 1997 and with similar quality. Across the board the 2001 vintage produced rich ripe wines with great intensity and structure.

Vinification
The wine was fermented in a small open-top tank for 14 days and punched down by hand daily. Aging was done in older French oak barrels for 17 months to soften the wine and preserve the bright fruit character. Bottled May 2002. Alcohol 14.4%, Total acidity .61, pH 3.73, Residual sugar .1%.

Tasting Notes
This version is an outstanding wine, combining luscious texture and intense fruitiness, with crisp acidity and evident toasted oak character. In flavor, it nearly tastes like a chocolate covered raspberry (with cherry and blueberry overtones). Enjoy with grilled fish with tomato salsa, meat lasagna, grilled portabella mushroom sandwich, and steak with mushroom sauce.

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