Nizza is to Barbera what Dogliano is to Dolcetto. Barbera grows very well in this Piedmont appellation in Monferrato, across the river from Barolo and Barbaresco. As a result, Barbera vines are planted on premium sites and soils and aged for a year or longer in barrels and at least six months in bottle before being released. This Nizza appeared recently in my local Trader Joe's and, after tasting, I quickly returned to buy half a case. As a Platinum Reserve selling for $14.99, it is a notch above most TJ wines but well worth the price.
Medium deep ruby/garnet. Intense smells and flavors. Cherries, red plums, spice. Barbera is generally high in acidity, low in tannin, and this is a perfect example. Fresh, lively fruit. Expressive and complex. May be the best Barbera I have had. I intend to keep Nizza Barbera on my shopping list.
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