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Once considered to be a rather unexceptional, commonplace grape, Barbera's image began to undergo a significant change in the late 1970s. Now, several winemakers employ techniques that maximize the grape's virtues (such as aging in French barriques and sourcing grapes from premier sites). Piemonte producer Hilberg has maximized Barbera's makeover, fashioning a style that's been embraced by the cult market. Styled to be consumed young, this hard-to-find yet oh-so-easy-to-drink idol pairs well with a vast gastronomic line-up.
- Country : Italy
- Region: Piemonte
- Subregion/Appellation: Barbera d'Alba
The Casa Pasquero Farm was founded in the early 20th century on a hilltop in Bricco Gatti. Following traditional farming practices, the Tarabra-Pasquero family have cultivated their land with an assortment of crops across small, dispersed plots of land. At that time, it was all that a farming family needed to support itself.
Tarabra and then Maggiorino led a dignified life consisting of daily challenges in symbiosis with nature. Pinin, who was considered to be one of the town sages, is remembered for his tall stature, both physical and moral, and his broadmindedness. Maggiorino was a great lover of horses and, in addition to those that worked on the farm, he raised carriage horses and ponies for his children.
However, as often happens, the farm’s true soul was born from Clementina, Pinin’s daughter and Maggiorino’s wife. She structured and educated the entire family group and still today follows the work of her son Michelangelo, the last of six brothers, with a reassuring eye.
This passion led Miklo to Annette (Hilberg) and it amuses them to point out that their relationship began in a bean field rather than on a beach under an umbrella. Annette then made a courageous decision, leaving a secure job as a professional nurse and throwing herself into a new passion for organic products and farming in the lowlands of Piedmont.
Their passion for wine grows stronger everyday. The organic food market is not as mature as Miklo and Annette would like, so they are gradually changing their production from vegetables and livestock to dedicate themselves to wine.
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