The 2021 Barbera Cascina Francia was tasted from barrel and pours a rich youthful ruby/purple color. Mineral-tinged with graphite, black raspberry, and violets, it is medium-bodied on the palate, with refined tannic structure, great freshness, and a red plum and more violet perfume. Gorgeous and pure, warmth and freshness at the same time, this is as good as it gets for Barbera. Drink 2024-2040.

Rich and explosive from the get-go, all the elements of the 2021 Barbera d'Alba Vigna Francia are massively dialed up. Black cherry, plum, incense, licorice, mocha and sage all rush from the glass. Dynamic and vibrant to the core, the 2021 is seriously impressive.

This is broad and meaty, evoking plum, cherry, almond and grassy flavors. Vibrant and intense, tipping to the powerful side, with fine balance and length overall. Drink now through 2029.