Gapsted Barbera 2002 (Recommended)

Giving nose; soft sweet berries that penetrate nicely. Interesting palate. Varietally correct in-so-far as the noticable acid is concerned (a bit sharp on opening) but this is countered through a soft, almost milky feel to the structure of the wine. More berry fruit, quite ripe, and bolstered with the plushness of the structure. Could be an oak driven effect? Acid never really departs, and keeps the wine tight at the end. Another good effort from Gapstead for the left field varieties (ie relative to Oz). We don't see many decent examples of this Northern Italian come our way but this is one we'd stock.