Pertinace is a small (only 15 members), high-quality cooperative in Piedmont that controls only 175 acres of vines but makes a great Barbera. Their 2011 is bright and lively with an ideal balance of fruit and spice with slightly briary undertones. Barbera’s well-known energetic acidity stimulates the palate without puckering tartness. It’s amazing to find the hallmark of a “food” wine, an attractive bitterness in the finish, in a $12 wine. Perfect for current drinking.
Pertinace, Barbera d’Alba (Piedmont, Italy) Barbera 2011
By Michael Apstein