Wolffer Estate Vineyards 2005 Cassina Barbera (Long Island)

Barbera from Long Island? It would appear so.

I didn't even know that it was being grown anywhere locally (outside of Alice Wise's research vineyard at the Cornell extension), but there is 1/3 of an acre grown at the North Fork's Indian Neck Farm. And, every last grape from that block went into the mere 71 cases of Wolffer Estate Vineyards 2005 Cassina Barbera ($40), which was named for a 14-year old Hanoverian Warmblood, and is 78% Barbera, 12% merlot and 10% cabernet franc.

Medium-dark crimson red with a lighter, brick rim, the nose is inviting with red cherry, rose petals, clove, black pepper and hints of brown sugar.

Medium-bodied with medium, slightly-astringent tannins, it's a bit more straightforward on the palate with cherry-vanilla and just a little brown spice. Alone, this wine is very good, but with a meal of my mother in-law's eggplant parmesan, the berry flavors and table-friendly acidity stood out.

Grape(s): 78% Barbera, 12% merlot, 10% cabernet franc
Producer: Wolffer Estate Vineyards
AVA: Long Island
Price: $40
Rating:  (3 out of 5 | Recommended)

Comments

[Dan]

Barbera's are usually wonderfull with food so it makes sense that you particularly enjoyed it with a meal. Especially Italian food that that is savory, tomatoy, and comforting (eggplant parm. I look forward to opening it with something similar.

[Ray Ormand]

I cannot imagine spending $40 on a Barbera from Long Island. That's a ridiculous price.