Piedmont, in the foothills of the Alps in the north west of Italy, is home to the country’s finest full-bodied red wines. The greatest wines of the region are made from the extremely long lived Nebbiolo, grown within the iconic appellations of Barolo and Barbaresco. Barbera however is the most widely planted and popular variety of the region, owing to its fruit-driven expressiveness and youthful approachability. Whilst the majority of the region’s vineyard owners still sell their fruit to large wineries and co-operatives, an increasing number are opting to make small amounts of wine themselves, selling directly under their own label such as Maretti.

75% Barbera & 25% Nebbiolo

Rich, liquorice and suede, dark cherry and dried rose perfume, some spice. It’s fleshy and savoury, invariably a little rustic to taste, but in a good way for a wine that’s made to be enjoyed with gusto as a youngster. It has freshness and energy too, given its scale, and finishes dry and savoury. It delivers. Tasted: Feb 19; Alcohol: 14.5%; Price: $24; Closure: Screwcap; Drink: 2020-2022+; Rated: 91 Points; Gary Walsh; The Wine Front