Barbera vs Pinot Noir
How to tell them apart in a blind tasting
The clearest separator between Barbera and Pinot Noir is tannin: Barbera is Medium while Pinot Noir is Low. Lead with that to resolve the blind call.
Structure compared
| Structure compared | Barbera | Pinot Noir |
|---|---|---|
| Acidity | High | Medium(+) |
| Tannin | Medium | Low |
| Body | Medium | Medium |
| Alcohol | Medium | Medium |
| Color intensity | Medium | Pale |
| Aromatic intensity | Medium(+) | Medium(+) |
Signature aromas
Barbera
red plumblack cherryviolet
Pinot Noir
red cherrycranberrymushroom
Common questions
- How do you tell Barbera and Pinot Noir apart in a blind tasting?
- The clearest separator between Barbera and Pinot Noir is tannin: Barbera is Medium while Pinot Noir is Low. Lead with that to resolve the blind call.
- Is Barbera or Pinot Noir higher in tannin?
- On the WSET ladder, Barbera is Medium and Pinot Noir is Low for tannin.
- Are Barbera and Pinot Noir red or white?
- Barbera and Pinot Noir are both red grape varieties.