The 2007 Barbera d’Alba (aged in steel) is soft and seamless in its dark red fruit, spices and flowers, all of which are framed by silky, refined tannins. The wine boasts impeccable balance and tons of harmony. Anticipated maturity: 2009-2012. This is easily the finest and most consistent set of wines I have ever tasted from Cortese, particularly among the entry-level bottlings, where in the past quality has been irregular. A Leonardo Lo Cascio Selection, Winebow, Montvale, NJ; tel. (201) 445-0620