The 2010 Barbera d'Alba Vigna Martina opens with vibrant dark colors and thick concentration that spreads like silk over the palate. A dusty mineral tone at the back, brimstone and pencil shavings, bring a feeling of sharpness and focus to the wine. Yet, the sheer generosity and fullness of the wine is its overriding factor. Anticipated maturity: 2014-2018. Elio Grasso and his son Gianluca have created one of the finest vineyards and wineries in the Langhe today. The energy shared by this dynamic father and son team demonstrates that no ambition is too far stretched or lofty - as long as there is a will for hard work. Investments made over the last decade include a state-of-the-art winery complete with an underground cellar, buried 45 meters below the vineyards. Recently, Gianluca says his passion has turned to vineyard work: "The point is not being the greatest wine producer. It is to be the greatest producer of grapes." Various American importers, including: Martin Scott Wines, Little Neck, NY; tel. (516) 327-0808; Langdon Shiverick Imports, Cleveland, OH; tel. (213) 483-5900; Classic Wine Imports, Norwood, MA; tel. (800) 862-4585; Admirality Beverage Co., Portland, OR; tel. (503) 265-3555