Barbera is a hearty, spicy red, produced most notably in Italy's Piedmont region as well as in California, especially in Sonoma, where it was brought there by Italian immigrants in the 19th century.

Barbera is a distinctive red wine as it has very high acidity as well as very light tannins. Given the acidity, it is an ideal choice at lunch with salumi, as the acidity cuts through the fat of the meat.

It is the most widely planted red variety of Piedmont and most versions are straightforward, slightly rustic wines that are meant for simple foods such as pizza and lighter pastas. However over the past twenty years, producers- especially in the Asti province - have made more "serious" versions of Barbera d'Asti, aged in small oak barrels. These are riper and more weighty versions, light years away from the traditional style.

California has some representative examples, with ripe blackberry fruit and light spice, yet Barbera has yet to receive the same attention as many other red varieties in the state. Most are best consumed young with grilled meats. (Wine/Grapes)