Fratelli Barale Barbera d’Alba “Castle” 2020

A wine that is all about the berries, blue berries that is. Even down to the hue in the glass – a blue tinge – that sets the tone for what follows. It smells of berry crush and a lemony citrus zest, with a tangy edge on the palate that fits perfectly into this very contemporary styling. Yet it’s not that simple, as there is what might easily be called minerality but is more quite typically regional, a white rock dust feel in the mouth. Real texture. Energetic fruit vibrancy. Genuine bang for your buck.