Nizza doesn't ring a bell? It should — and after one glass of Lot 866, it will. Carved out as its own DOCG in 2014 from the southern reaches of Piedmont's Barbera d'Asti zone, Nizza represents the most serious, concentrated expression of Barbera that Italy produces — and this 2018 bottling is a stunning showcase of what this emerging appellation can do. The nose opens with deep black cherry and ripe plum, layered with a seductive ribbon of licorice and a cool, damp forest floor earthiness that adds real complexity and intrigue. On the palate it's full-bodied and structured with firm, food-friendly acidity, a plush mid-palate, and a long, savory finish.

The 2018 vintage in Piedmont delivered ideal ripeness with excellent natural acidity — exactly the conditions that allow Barbera to show its most complete, compelling side. This is not your everyday easy-drinking Italian red. Lot 866 has genuine depth and cellar potential, and it rewards the attention you give it. Decant it for thirty minutes and pair it with braised short ribs, wild mushroom pasta, or a truffle-laced risotto. Nizza is the next big thing out of Italy — get ahead of it now.