-
94
/ 100
Monica Larner -
93
/ 100
Vinous
Red
Classification
Barbera
Variety
2017
Vintage
750ml (Bottle)
Bottle Size
Italy
Country
Piedmont, Barbera d'Alba
Region
14.5%
Alcohol %
15 Plus Years
Cellaring
Scores
94 / 100"Compared to the expression from the Cerretta vineyard, the 2017 Barbera d'Alba Vigna Francia is even darker in color with more austerity and muscle power at the back. The alcohol reading of the two wines is the same (15.5%), but this expression offers less obvious fruit and more dark mineral instead. The soils in the Francia vineyard see a mix of limestone sand and clay, and this is true of where both the Barbera and the Nebbiolo vines are located. You sense an increased mineral presence in the Francia with iron, salt and scorched earth. This full-throttle Barbera is penetrating and deep. This is a fine expression of the grape, offering exacting detail and precision."
- Monica Larner
93 / 100
"Conterno's 2017 Barbera d'Alba Francia is super-expressive and explosive, with soaring perfume and deep, plush fruit. Lavender, mint, spice and a core of inky, plush fruit all develop in the glass. In tasting, the Francia has a vertical lift to it that is compelling. The 2017 has tremendous aromatic and structural intensity that will start to blossom in another few years' time."
- Vinous
Tasting Notes
Great consistency, the nose sensations of red fruit jam, spices, ethereal notes and lavender. On the palate it is mineral, fresh, with a fine consistency and beautiful persistence
A structured and consistent wine
Tasting Profile
- Light
- Full
- Low Tannin
- Tannic
- Sweet
- Dry
- Low Acidity
- High Acidity