2024 Montaribaldi La Consolina Barbera d'Asti

The 'Azienda agricola Montaribaldi' is a historically family-run business, located in the heart of the Langhe hills in the small village of Barbaresco. Montaribaldi's grapes grow among the vineyards of Angelo Gaja's famous winery. They're certainly not the least of neighbors. The owners of the Montaribaldi winery, brothers Luciano and Roberto Taliano, are fortunate to have their plots of land scattered throughout the Langhe and Monferrato hills. Wine has been produced here for centuries, and even UNESCO has recognized the interplay of man and nature, recently adding this region to its prestigious World Heritage List. Although the Montaribaldi winery has existed for much longer, the brothers have been in the wine business for a relatively short time, having been in business since 1994. However, together with winemaker Carlo Arnulfo, they are already producing exquisite Piedmont wines with excellent value for money.

The family produces some of the most famous wines from the Piedmont region: Barbaresco DOCG, Barolo DOCG, Barbera d'Alba DOC, Barbera d'Asti DOCG, and Roero Arneis. They offer a complete range of wines made from grapes typical of this region. A key characteristic of this winery is that the wines originate in Piedmont, are always recognizable as "Montaribaldi" wines, and are sustainably grown and produced. As they call it, making "vineyard wines" sets them apart.

The Barbera d'Asti La Consolina comes from vineyards located in the municipality of Costigliole d'Asti—and this is where the finest Barbera d'Asti wines originate. The vineyard faces southeast at an altitude of 200 meters and was planted in 1960. The terroir consists of sandy soil with marl and limestone in the upper layers. It is therefore not surprising that La Consolina has such a beautiful mineral nose and finish. The Barbera grapes are harvested between late September and the first half of October, after which they are destemmed and crushed. They are then placed in stainless steel, thermo-conditioned tanks where alcoholic fermentation takes place. Alcoholic fermentation lasts approximately one week at a temperature of 27-29°C.

The wine then remains on its lees for three months (temperature 20-22°C) to complete malolactic fermentation. The wine is then allowed to mature quietly for another four months (at a very low temperature). Finally, in the summer following the harvest, the Barbera d'Asti La Consolina is bottled and, after several months of storage in the Montaribaldi cellars, becomes available.

Color, aroma and taste of Montaribaldi La Consolina 2024

The wine displays a bright ruby red color with purple reflections. The nose reveals aromas of ripe red fruit such as cherries and plums, with subtle spicy notes. On the palate, La Consolina is medium-bodied with good structure, lively acidity, and soft tannins. The finish is fresh, elegant, and mellow, making it ideal for everyday meals and a variety of dishes.

Would you like to order Montaribaldi wines online?

The 2024 Montaribaldi La Consolina is stored in our climate-controlled Wine Warehouse. If you come to collect your wine, you'll often receive a generous discount. You'll see your discount immediately when you select "Collect" at checkout. We are located in Dordrecht, just off the A16 motorway, with ample parking. Click here for our address .

If available, you'll find the wine's official fact sheet attached to the product page. Full reviews from international wine journalists like Parker, Suckling, and Vinous can be viewed via the links next to the image. This service is free for Grand Cru customers.

Need advice on choosing the right wine for your dish? Click here for our exclusive Sommelier . Available free of charge to Grand Cru customers.

Wine and food pairings with Montaribaldi La Consolina

• Tagliatelle with Bolognese sauce – the fresh acidity of the Barbera cuts beautifully through the creaminess of the sauce and enhances the meat.
• Roast chicken with rosemary and garlic – the succulent poultry and spicy note complement the soft fruit and spiciness in the wine.
• Roasted Pepper Risotto with Parmesan Cheese – the savory notes in this dish are beautifully balanced by the wine's fresh, fruity style.
• Eggplant parmigiana – the combination of tomato, grilled vegetables, and melted cheese pairs beautifully with the acidity and texture of Barbera.
• Beef stew with balsamic vinegar and sage – a rich, earthy pairing that accentuates the wine’s depth and soft tannins.
• Duck and orange zest ravioli – a luxurious combination where fruit and savoury flavours complement each other in harmony with the elegant Barbera style.