91 Points - Wine Enthusiast
Gold Medal - 2016 San Francisco International Wine Competition
Gold Medal - 2016 Orange County Wine Competition
This week we were able to secure another allocation from the tiny production, and our friends over at Muscardini Cellars. Muscardini makes small quantities of a variety of wines, some traditionally Californian like Zinfandel, and others, like today’s Barbera inspired by the wines of Italy. Barbera is planted in many places in Italy, but is most well known for producing lighter, earlier drinking wines from Piedmont, to enjoy while waiting for Barolo and Barberesco to mature. That being said, Barbera is capable of making extremely fine wines in its own right, especially when yields are kept low, as they are by Muscardini Cellars. The result is a delicious wine perfect for winter drinking.
The 2012 Muscardini Pauli Ranch Barbera, sourced from the Ukiah Valley in Mendocino County, is light purple in color, with a ruby rim. The nose shows exotic aromas of candied fruit and baked apple, and the palate is similar, showing cherry, ripe berries, and floral notes. Great acidity and lively fresh fruit flavors make this an ideal summer wine, pairing beautifully with a wide range of food, and even having the ability to be served slightly chilled. Alternatively, this could age for 3 more years in the cellar, where it would develop depth and complexity.
Barbera is rare in California, and good Barbera even more so, so don’t miss out on the chance to stock up on this exquisite example at a great discount. Your next Italian meal won’t be the same without it!
Cases Produced: 637
Harvested: September 3, 2012
Bottled: September 15, 2013
Alcohol: 14.2%
All Wines
Violet black in color with aromas of rich fruity dark berries, honeycomb, vanilla, and hints of forest floor join together with bold flavors of black cherry, and spiced nut. Balanced oak, layered palette, leaving you with a enjoyable persistent finish.
Big & Jammy!
Aromas and robust flavors of dark cherry, blackberries, mocha, espresso and hints of black pepper. Incredibly balanced with a smooth mouthfeel and body against a backdrop of structured tannins. The wine unfolds with notes of clove and dried herbs, ending with a long rich finish.
Rich & Luxurious!
Beautiful ruby color and opens with aromas of bright red plum and raspberry, cassis, and a touch of mint. The tannins are soft yet structured, and complemented by vibrant acidity, with hints of clove and baking spice from the oak aging. The wine ends with a long, smooth finish and lingering intensity encouraging you to enjoy another juicy sip.
Rich & Tropical...
Notes of tropical and ripe stone fruits, with aromas of fig, golden apple and hints of butterscotch, integrated with the richer aromas of light caramel, truffle and toasted vanilla from the oak aging. The palate and texture is rich, full-bodied and creamy, while maintaining a balanced vibrancy and finish.
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