A rare find in New Zealand, for this first vintage of the Askerne block of Italian varietal Barbera. A gleaming jewel-like pale ruby colour in the glass. Bright, young and popping with vibrant aromatics. Sour cherry, greengage, sumac, redcurrant, cola, raspberry and pomegranete with greener notes of nettle and geranium. Light-bodied, not much more than a robust rosé, but with more complexity and character. Really juicy, with a tart acidity and a crunch of fruit jube sweet-sour flavours. Smooth tannins and a bit more spice comes through on the palate. Tasted alongside an asian pork belly dish, this was a good food wine, handling the spice and heat. 88pts
Askerne Barbera 2021
