Tonight I experienced two very different and distinctive Italian wines.
The first one, a 2019 Barbera wine, Amista Nizza D.O.C.G had an unusual flavor profile and aroma. On the nose, I got notes of strawberry, black fruit a bit of orange peel and some earthiness. On the palate additional notes of clay, cranberry, tomato, balsamic, and forest floor. It reminded me of wet leaves after an autumn rain. Although, the tannins and acidity chilled out and opened up after breathing for a while, I rated it a 3.9 for its funkiness.
The second wine we decanted for 2 1/2 hours was a 2018 Barolo. Barolo Del Comune Di Serralunga D’Alba was so smooth and balanced and while bold in flavor, it wasn’t heavy at all. It was a beautiful deep ruby color with a combination of black and red fruit, vanilla and rose petal on the nose. It had a lasting finish with notes of vanilla, oak, chocolate, leather and spice. I rated this velvety beauty a 4.2!
