Rosa dell Olmo Barbera d'Asti

Rosa dell Olmo Barbera d’Asti

GRAPES: Barbera

VINTAGE: 2018

REGION: Italy

ALCOHOL PERCENTAGE: 13.0%

PRICE: $6.99

What day is it again and which athleisure clothes will I be wearing to “work” today? These are two questions that I’ve been asking myself on repeat while quarantined during the COVID-19 outbreak. While I love connecting with my friends through Facetime and Zoom meetings, let’s face it, the real hero during this self-quarantine is the wine. ALL THE WINE. During my last Trader Joe’s run, I made certain that I had MANY bottles in my arsenal because who knows how many it would take to keep me sane during all of this. All jokes aside, these tastings are a fun outlet and allow me to explore wine that I may have otherwise overlooked. So without further ado, I bring to you this week’s wine of choice Rosa dell Olmo Barbera d'Asti.

A couple of weeks ago, I did a poll on Instagram asking what you all wanted to see more of and Italian reds won by a long shot, so this week we are exploring a Barbera by Rosa dell Olmo. Most Barberas that I’ve had are bold and intense, attention getters if you will. So I was excited to see how this bottled compared at this particular price point. I poured myself a HEFTY glass and began to swirl. Here are some of my initial observations:

TASTING NOTES:

  • Deep ruby hue

  • Notes of dark red fruit like black cherry

  • Hints of spice, specifically notes of black pepper

  • Every day, easy-drinking red wine

  • Slightly acidic

  • Mild/medium body

  • Low tannins

Verdict: 

This wine was an interesting one. I poured a rather large glass because, well, it’s Tuesday during my third week of quarantine and I took an immediate sip only to be left in dismay. Even though it was a lower price point than most Barbearas, I expected something a little different. Even though patience is a virtue I don’t have, I decided to let it open up a bit before I continued. Thank goodness I did because it was almost a different wine. Even though it wasn’t as bold or intense as other wines, I found it to be very drinkable and for the $6.99 price point, this one would pair well with a pepperoni pizza or just for sitting on your back porch. Make sure you manage your expectations, this isn't your typical bold Barbera but it is a lovely wine.

Until Next Time!