2020 Forgeron Cellars Barbera
Our Sagemoor Vineyard Barbera is always exciting to watch as it progresses from a tiny berry into this quarter size berry bursting with vibrant flavor. This year we were able to grasp the freshness and acidity of this grape to carry it through to the glass. We enjoy seeing the vibrant purple hues that come out of this varietal and how easily it moves through fermentation. Every year it is a phenomenal varietal to bring into the winery, and every year we are delighted to bring the finished wine to your glass.
Upon viewing in the glass you note the color goes from regal deep purple to crimson. The nose begins with notes of sweet grape and cherry sours candy then gently lilts away to leave numerous earthy tones. The palate is rustic, dry and punchy, with a vein of slick grappa-esque texture, likely from the 25% stainless steel barrel aging, and a sweet and sour mushroom situation liberally doused with stone fruit flavors. A worthy successor and continuation of the past three spectacular vintages. With a dose of bottle aging, the 2020 may develop into the best of the quartet.
| Download Wine Notes |
| Vintage | 2020 |
| Varietal | Barbera |
| Varietal Composition | 100% Barbera |
| Appellation | Columbia Valley |
| Vineyard | Sagemoor |
| Acid | 6.7 g\/L |
| PH | 3.47 |
| Aging | 16 months in 75% neutral French oak and 25% stainless steel |
| Alcohol | 14.50% |
| Volume | 750 ml |
| Cases Produced | 200 |
90 points, Wine Enthusiast Magazine
A sweet aroma similar to cherry-flavored Jolly Rancher candies joins notes of dark chocolate and aged balsamic vinegar. The wine's flavors of strawberry preserves, lemon, salty Marcona almonds and cedar glide along a smooth-textured palate, supported by velvety tannins and modest acidity. Try it with an aged hangar steak.
- Michael Alberty
