This variety alone is the wine used in over 50% of Piedmont's vineyards.
It is probably a seed derivative of older local species in the Monferrato district. Its good performance in terms of both cultivation and output endeared it to the hearts of growers and it soon spread far and wide. Barbera is a vigorous variety with a constant and relatively abundant yield. It also displays good resistance to bad weather (hail and frost) and parasites. It ripens late and its grapes (used for wine-making only) are not gathered until the beginning of October.
It is primarily planted in the provinces of Asti, Alessandria and Cuneo, though it is equally found in the Novara district and the province of Turin.
Last updated 30-Jun-97
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