A heavenly barbera from the "Valley of the Priest."

Cascina Val del Prete or valley of the priest takes its name from the exiled Bishop of Asti who lived there in 1850. In 1977, Bartolomeo Roagna and his wife Carolina bought the farm "Val del Prete" where they had worked as sharecroppers. The first thing they did was replace some of the property's grain and fruit with vines. The grapes are planted on south facing slopes in a splendid natural amphitheater. Over the years they have increased the area under vine and today, their sons, Mario and Luigi, have entered the family business and take care of the vineyards.

Deep vibrant color and bright cherry/plum fruit distinguish this luscious and seductive Barbera. The Piemontese like their Barberas young, with snappy acidity to counterbalance their rich foods. This fine small producer has certainly hit the mark.

Food Matches: Pasta (especially egg noodles) with tomato sauce, chicken cacciatore, toma piemontese and taleggio cheeses.