Barbera vs Barbaresco: What's the Difference?

If you've ever browsed our Piedmont collection and wondered whether to pick up a bottle of Barbera or Barbaresco, you're not alone. Both are iconic wines from Italy's north-west, and while they might sound similar, they couldn't be more different in style, grape, and experience. Here's what sets them apart and when to choose each.

Barbera is the name of a grape variety, and one of the most widely planted in Piedmont. It's the heart of everyday Italian wine culture, loved for its approachability, juicy fruit, and natural freshness. You'll often see Barbera d'Alba (we have two: by Codera or Fontianabianca) or Barbera d'Asti on the label, indicating where it's grown. These wines tend to be deeply coloured, bursting with flavours of cherry, plum, and soft spice, with high acidity and low tannins. That makes them perfect for pizza, pasta, and just about anything you'd serve at a midweek dinner. Some versions, like Barbera Superiore, see a bit of oak aging, giving them extra depth without losing their easy charm.

Barbaresco, on the other hand, is not a grape but a place. It's a small, prestigious DOCG zone in Piedmont where the only permitted grape is Nebbiolo. Unlike Barbera, Nebbiolo is pale in colour but powerful in structure, with firm tannins, high acidity, and aromas that evolve beautifully in the glass. Think rose petals, cherries, tar, truffle, and a touch of spice. Barbaresco wines require ageing before release and continue to develop complexity over many years. They are elegant yet structured, best enjoyed with richer fare such as braised meats, aged cheese or truffle-laced risotto.

While Barbera offers instant pleasure, Barbaresco rewards patience. One is juicy and effortless, the other deep and meditative. Both are unmistakably Piedmontese, and both deserve a place in your wine rack, depending on the moment. If you're new to Italian wine, Barbera is the perfect place to start. If you're ready to explore something more refined and age-worthy, Barbaresco is your next step.

Start with our curated taster packs to discover both styles and taste the diversity of one of Italy's most revered wine regions. Whether it’s a Tuesday night or a special occasion, Piedmont has you covered.