2024 Ercole Barbera 1L Monferrato DOC

Many folks know the Barbera grape for its bright acidity, and this wine is no exception to the rule. Far less known is the fact that Monferrato’s most prestigious zones are dedicated to Barbera plantings. (The very opposite holds true in the Langhe, where Nebbiolo reigns supreme.) Typically planted to southern exposure, these vineyards yield wines of great depth and balance. In this bottle, you’ll find a ton of juicy, fresh red fruit (think raspberry as opposed to strawberry), alongside black fruits, spice, brambly earth, and savory herbs. Truly, it’s the quintessential “fruit, spice, everything nice” type of vino. Amazingly crushable and great with a little chill for patio enjoying.

Ercole is a line of everyday Piedmontese wines created by The Piedmont Guy in collaboration with a long-established cooperative of small, family growers in Monferrato, one of Piedmont’s most historic winegrowing areas and the birthplace of Barbera. Sourced from sustainably farmed, predominantly old vines aged 30 to 50 years, the wines reflect a collective commitment to preserving local varieties and regional tradition. Growers follow the EU’s lotta integrata standards, with many certified organic, avoiding systemic chemicals and relying only on minimal copper and sulfur; all wines are vinified and bottled vegan. Designed to be honest, accessible, and expressive of place, Ercole offers authentic Monferrato character and exceptional value through a cooperative model that supports small growers while safeguarding Piedmont’s viticultural heritage.