Barbera is quite the comeback story. Once the redheaded stepchild of Piedmont winemakers, relegated to the lesser vineyards behind its golden-boy brother Nebbiolo, Barbera is now known for making easy-drinking, acid-driven, everyday reds that pair with everything from pizza to barbecued meats. Some winemakers are even planting Barbera in top vineyards throughout the Langhe subregion of Piedmont and thoughtfully using oak barrels to give the grape richness and depth.

If you like Pinot Noir or Chianti, Barbera should be the next addition to your wine-drinking repertoire. Get to know the grape better with VinePair’s illustrated guide below.

An Illustrated Guide to Barbera from Italy