The 2001 Barbera d’Asti La Court, a deep ruby in color, is properly warm and jammy in aroma with abundant plum fruit and oak spices, round and ample on the palate, but not as richly textured and full as some of its rivals from neighboring vineyards. Drink: 2005-2008. Perhaps I am being a bit hard on this producer – the Barolo from 2001 does appear to be a very large improvement on the 2000 vintage – and everyone is entitled to an occasional stumble from time to time. But I do think it is legitimate to ask for more.Importer: Kobrand Corp., New York, NY; tel. (212) 490-9300