Barba – i Vasari “Old Vines” Montepulciano d’Abruzzo DOC – 2022
Abruzzo, Italy 🇮🇹
Overview
From one of Abruzzo’s most respected family producers, the Barba i Vasari Old Vines embodies the soulful depth of mature Montepulciano vineyards. Crafted from low-yielding old vines rooted in clay-limestone soils, this DOC wine bridges intensity and elegance, a fine showcase of what Abruzzo can achieve when tradition meets restraint.
Aromas & Flavors
Dark cherries, black plum, and crushed violets lead the way, followed by nuances of black pepper, cocoa, and a touch of sweet tobacco. Hints of dried herbs and vanilla complete the aromatic frame.
Mouthfeel
Medium to full-bodied, silky in texture yet structured with supple tannins. There’s a satisfying balance between ripe dark fruit and savory spice, culminating in a long, refined finish.
Food Pairings
Perfect with lasagna alla bolognese, grilled lamb chops, wild mushroom risotto, or aged pecorino.
Verdict
A beautiful expression of Montepulciano d’Abruzzo, intense yet approachable, generous but never overbearing. Old vines deliver concentration and charm in equal measure. Cheers!
Did You Know?
The “i Vasari” vineyards trace their origins to the 1700s and sit near Pescara, between the Adriatic Sea and the Apennines. This position brings cool coastal breezes that preserve acidity even in warmer years.
🍷 Personal Pick Highlight
A deliciously balanced Montepulciano that delivers both depth and drinkability. A genuine Italian gem I’d pour confidently for any gathering of Italian wine lovers. — 7 months ago
Jeff and Brian at the Indian restaurant — 3 months ago
Another straggler that aged better than expected. Medium bodied with red fruity notes still present balanced by earthy acidic palate — 4 months ago
La Fiera Montepulciano d'Abruzzo. Not Pinot Grigio. Bought 6/25 at Pine Orchard $7. Light in body, a bit acidic. — 6 months ago
Truly a 10/10. Floral bouquet of flavor and went fantastic with steak. Purchased in Naples. — 7 months ago
Jeff Mark Yaz and Brian — 8 months ago
Great drinkable wine — 6 years ago
S'accorde biem eb regardant le patinage artistique.
Des notes d'agrumes et de pomme verte. Aussi la petite touche saline en fin de bouche. — 3 months ago

Paul T, Missing My Beautiful Wife 24/7
Well there is Instagram that you can make it up as well.TW, loved kt — 8 months ago
Nose - Crayons (in a good way), Old wood barrels and Petrichor. Main tastes - Muted fruit flavors because it’s so soft and smooth on the tannins for the most part. Maybe a bit of crab apples from the acid. Really approachable food wine. I love Montepulcianos so I’m a bit bias here with my rating but overall it’s really nice. — 8 months ago
What a wine! Semi dried ripe cherries in nose. Balanced and mild tanins. Line, plums, dark cherries and a pinch of sour dark bread on plateau. Palette rich, medium rounded and developed nicely within breathing.
Comparing to vintages 2021 and 2022 much less sweet and fruity. Feels like more matured than it is.
Great itself and paired to smoked meat. — a year ago
Mike Miller
The restaurant here orders it from their hometown, so it’s absolutely fabulous — 2 months ago