Easton, Barbera 2009, Cooper Ranch, Shenandoah Valley, California

Tasting Note: A well-made and more than straightforward barbera.

Ruby in color this wine has a nose of ripe blackberry and black plum fruit with clove and vanilla baking spice.

On the palate the barbera shows some body with a round apricot character towards the mid-palate.

There is also bright acidity complimented by medium tannin.

Bottle Note: This hand-crafted reserve-styled barbera is made from grapes grown on hillsides on the Cooper Ranch in the Shenandoah Valley, California appellation of Amador County. It is a Piedmontese variety that thrives in the climate and terroir of this New World setting. Amador has developed a world-wide reputation for Barbera. – Jane O’Riordan and Bill Easton