Conterno’s 2009 Langhe Nebbiolo Il Favot is a good introduction to the wines of this historic estate. Sweet red berries, flowers, French oak, anise and tobacco waft from the glass. This is a decidedly medium-bodied, fragrant wine. The Favot is Conterno’s entry-level Nebbiolo and is made from the estate’s younger vineyards, all of which are typically less than 20 years old. It is the only Nebbiolo aged in French oak. Anticipated maturity: 2012-2015. The recent passing of Aldo Conterno after a long bout with illness left a huge void in Piemonte. I still remember the first time I met Conterno. His extraordinary sense of dignity left a lasting impression. Conterno’s three sons have been in charge of the winery for some time, but it is still impossible not to feel the loss of a man who did so much for the image of Piemonte around the world. Importer: Massanois Imports, Washington, DC; tel. (202) 470-6769