La Trava, Barbera d’Asti 2020

La Trava is a boutique winery in Piemonte, dedicated to crafting wines that highlight the vibrant character of the region’s native grapes. Their Barbera d’Asti 2020 is a fresh yet structured expression of Barbera, showcasing the grape’s signature high acidity, juicy fruit, and smooth tannins. Sourced from vineyards with clay and limestone-rich soils, this wine is aged in stainless steel and oak to preserve its lively character while adding subtle depth and complexity. The result is an elegant, food-friendly red that captures the essence of Asti’s winemaking tradition.

Appearance: Deep ruby red with violet highlights, showing its youthful energy. The wine has excellent clarity and a medium to full concentration, with slow-moving legs that hint at its balanced alcohol and rich texture.

Aroma: Intense and fruit-forward, with aromas of ripe black cherries, red plums, and wild berries. Floral notes of violets and a touch of dried herbs add freshness, while subtle hints of sweet spice and cocoa bring complexity. The absence of excessive oak influence allows the purity of the fruit to shine.

Taste: Juicy and well-structured, with vibrant red and dark berry flavours balanced by Barbera’s naturally high acidity. Sour cherry, blackberry, and pomegranate dominate, supported by smooth tannins and a lively freshness. Hints of liquorice, black pepper, and a touch of vanilla emerge on the mid-palate, adding depth without overpowering the wine’s fruit-driven nature.

Finish: Long and refreshing, with lingering red fruit, floral undertones, and a slight mineral edge. The acidity keeps the wine lively and food-friendly, while the tannins remain soft and polished, making it an easy-drinking yet layered expression of Barbera.

Food Pairing: Pairs beautifully with roast pork with rosemary and garlic, where the wine’s acidity balances the richness of the dish while enhancing its savoury flavours. Also an excellent match with a classic tomato-based pasta such as amatriciana, as the wine’s bright fruit and freshness complement the dish’s acidity and spice.