Pico Maccario Epico 2015 750 ML

This year?s top spot goes to a?Barbera from Piedmont?a category that has made huge strides in the last few decades. While not historically considered a high-quality grape, a growing number of producers have focused their efforts on building its reputation through better vineyard and cellar practices, moving away from the simple, fruity offerings to structured, concentrated pours. The No. 1 wine this year is from the relatively new Nizza DOCG?one of the best sites for Barbera and formerly a subzone of Barbera d?Asti. It is made by one of the catalysts behind the creation of the designation, Michele Chiarlo. At a price that?s hard to beat, it shows the incredible precision, complexity and ageability that exemplifies this new wave of Barbera from Piedmont.