The 2007 Barbaresco Rio Sordo is a beautiful wine redolent of crushed flowers, spices, raspberries, plums and tobacco. This is a representative Rio Sordo Barbaresco in its attractive spiciness and up-front, accessible personality. In 2007 the wine has a touch more richness than is often the case, but it never abandons what is a classic feel. Pine, menthol, resin and a host of other balsamic nuances linger on the impeccable finish. Anticipated maturity: 2012-2025. Proprietor Giovanna Rizzolio makes pretty, understated Barbareschi that are well worth discovering. The Barbaresco Tre Stelle is a new bottling made from one of the recently designated subzones in Barbaresco. Depending on who you speak with, Tre Stelle may nor may not have once been part of Rio Sordo. Regardless, it will be interesting to see what these wines are capable of now that wines can carry the Tre Stelle designation. Personally, I prefer the Rio Sordo here, but it is too soon to reach any definitive judgments. Importer: La Famiglia Corona Importers, LLC, Baton Rouge, LA; tel. (225) 650-9030