Charles Smith CasaSmith Cervo Barbera 2019

Drink now or cellar for another 8 years. No need to decant before serving.

Charles Smith started out his working life as a rock band manager, and it was here that he first fell in love with wine while touring Europe. When he was finally ready to return to settled life in the US, it was only natural that he would choose winemaking for his next endeavour. After successfully teaching himself how to make wine, Smith celebrated his first vintage in 1999 with 330 cases of Syrah. Since then the label has flourished and Smith has been named Winemaker of the Year by Food & Wine and by Wine Enthusiast magazines.

This elegant Barbera is frequently lauded as one of the best expressions of the grape to be found outside Italy. It is a single vineyard cuvee made with fruit from Northridge Vineyard in Washington State’s Wahluke Slope appellation. Once in the winery the fruit is fermented in stainless steel tanks and then aged in French oak barrels on the lees before bottling.

Enticing notes of cassis, black cherry, and plum immediately burst out of the glass followed by deeper hints of sunbaked earth, sweet spice and licorice. The elegant yet intense flavour profile makes it a great option to pair with game dishes like venison or guinea fowl as well as charcuterie, hard cheeses and pasta dishes.