Villa Barbaro Valpolicella 2018 Valpolicella DOC, Veneto, Italy 75cl

Villa Barbaro Valpolicella comes from the classic red-wine country of the Veneto, in the hills north of Verona and close to Lake Garda. This is the fresh, everyday face of Valpolicella, made for immediate pleasure rather than long ageing, and it captures the region at its most easy-going.

The wine is built on Corvina, the native grape that gives quality Valpolicella its structure and its signature red-cherry lift, and the variety that also underpins the region’s famous Amarone and Ripasso. Made here in a light, unoaked style, it keeps things bright and juicy, showing the effortless charm that has made Valpolicella one of Italy’s best-loved reds.

The 2018 is a straightforward, food-friendly expression of this style, and it drinks well now. This is not a wine to cellar; its appeal lies in fresh fruit and easy drinkability, so it is best enjoyed while it is young and lively rather than tucked away.

Expect bright red cherry and a hint of dried herb on the nose, a light to medium body, soft tannins and the faint, appealing almond-like bitterness on the finish that is so typical of the region. It is happiest served lightly chilled, especially in warm weather, and pairs naturally with pizza, tomato-based pasta, cured meats, grilled vegetables and lighter roasts.

If you like a red that is refreshing rather than heavy, this Valpolicella is an ideal midweek bottle. Think of it as northern Italy’s answer to an easy, chill-friendly red, with just enough regional character to keep it genuinely interesting.