Barbera from California.
SRP of $11 and available for as low as $8. Sample submitted for review.
From the winery:
"The 2011 Barbera from McManis Family Vineyards is medium ruby in color. Bright, focused, red raspberry is the predominant fruit. However, black fruit and cherry are also found. There is also faint clove contributed from oak aging. The wine is medium bodied, with soft medium tannins. The acidity of the wine amplifies the fruit flavors, and a nice hint of mocha lingers long after the wine has been swallowed.
13.5% Alcohol"
Barbera is the third most planted grape in Italy, but it's really just beginning to spread to the rest of the world with California leading the way. And while it's not uncommon to find Italian grapes such as Barbera grown in California (see here and here), the prices are usually on the high side thanks to the low supply. Today's wine; however, breaks the mold by offering a delicious version of Barbera for under $10.
The winery that brings this to us is no stranger to these pages either. We've long been fans of the quality wines at extremely reasonable prices that McManis Family Vineyards brings to the table. Wines such as:
- McManis Family Vineyards Cabernet Sauvignon 2010 - An Everyday Cabernet.
- McManis Family Vineyards Pinot Noir 2010 - Hunt For The Best Pinot Noir Under $20.
- McManis Family Vineyards Viognier 2011 - Don't Call It A Comeback.
- McManis Zinfandel 2010 - An Easy-Drinking and Well-Balanced Zin.
- McManis Family Vineyards Petite Sirah 2010 - Smoky Blackberry and Toffee.
- McManis Family Vineyards Malbec 2010 - Malbec Mania! Search For The Best Malbec Under $20.
- Jack Tone Vineyards Red Wine Bottle Blend 3 Liter Bag In Box - Breaking Into The Box.
- Jack Tone Vineyards White Wine Bottle Blend 3 Liter Bag In Box - Breaking Into The Box (Part Two).
Let's see how today's wine compares.
The 2011 McManis Family Vineyards Jamie Lynn Vineyard Barbera begins with a very inviting aroma of raspberry, black cherry and some delicious baking spice. Tasting the wine reveals a medium-bodied, easy to drink wine with soft tannins that features a very nice combo of fruit (raspberry, strawberry and blackberry) and a little spice. The spice comes to the forefront on the lengthy finish and the fruit flavors turn more to cranberry. This wine is sure to please and would make a great pairing for a pizza!
See a listing of local retailers selling this wine here.
Overall Rating: 7.5
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