The Grand Jury Européen, a tasting group, just had four interesting but not easy sessions on 2005, 2006 and 2007 barbera (d'Alba, d'Asti, del Monferrato, Colline Tortonesi...) at Acqui Terme in Monferrato. Many wines, as so often happens with the grape, were excessively rustic and acidic. Some were overtly and boringly 'modern' with loads of waxy (but not necessarily top-notch) new oak. Some were good examples of the freshness and drinkability the variety can reach. The overall results of the Grand Jury panel aren't available yet, but these were my personal favorites among the 136 tasted:
In 2007, Giulin by Accornero (superbly refined Monferrato wine), La Quercia by Cascina Gallarin, No Wood by Scrimaglio, I Quaranta, Castlè by Marco Rabino, Bricco Crea by Tenuta La Tenaglia, Conterno Fantino, Trincherina by Fratelli Trinchero, L'Avvocata by Luigi Coppo.
In 2006, Luciano Sandrone (my favorite in this vintage), Bricco Dani by Villa Giada, Naunda by Bric Cenciurio, Cascina Valeggia, Banin by Regali, Crutin Riserva Personale by Mario Crimaglio, Mauro Veglio, Bricco Sereno by La Meridiana.
In 2005, Mora di Sassi by Malgrà, Luciano Sandrone, Le Nicchie by La Gironda, Rodeo by Cascina Montagnola.