The 2009 Barbera d’Alba Trevigne shows off layers of expressive dark red berries, flowers and sweet spices. This soft, silky Barbera impresses for its delineation, juiciness and flat out pleasure quotient. This is another great showing from Clerico. Anticipated maturity: 2011-2015. Readers who want to enjoy a bottle from Domenico Clerico without breaking the bank will delight in these three new releases. While perhaps somewhat counterintuitive, one of the things I value most in a grower is the quality of the entry-level offerings. These wines will please even the most demanding of palates. A Marc de Grazia Selection, various American importers, including: de Grazia Imports; tel. (417) 732-4200; Michael Skurnik, Syosset, NY; (516) 677-9300, Estate Wines Ltd., San Rafael CA; (415) 492-9411, Robert Houde Wines, Bensenville IL; (630) 422-1119

Black currant, vanilla and toast aromas and flavors highlight this rich, opulent red. Vivid and intense, but slightly astringent in the end. Drink now through 2016. 1,750 cases made.??–BS??Region: Italy / Piedmont / Barbera d'Alba Select to Add