The 2005 Barbaresco is an accessible, mid-weight wine ideal for near-term drinking. Red berries, spices and flowers linger on the soft finish. Anticipated maturity: 2009-2015. The Dellapiana family owns some of the most highly regarded vineyards in all of Barbaresco. These classically-styled wines fall into the lighter end of the spectrum in the region. I have been tasting the Rizzi Barbarescos now for a number of years and I always come away with the same impression; with a little more care in the vineyards and lower yields these wines could make a significant jump in quality. Importer: Opici Wines , www.opiciwines.com

The wine opens with gentle notes of pressed blue flower, white almond skin, wet earth and a subtle hint of white mushroom that adds substance and density. It leaves the plate crystal clean thanks to its bright acidity and firm tannins and imparts lingering impressions of smoke and tar on the finish.——M.L.(4/1/2009)—— 89