The 2010 Pinot Nero is beguiling. Sweet red berries, freshly cut flowers and mint are some of the notes that emerge from the glass. The mid-weight, gracious style seems best suited to near-term drinking, but the Pinot is always so pure here it is impossible not to wonder what might be possible if the aim was to make a more structured, serious wine. This is another hugely delicious wine from Les Cretes. Anticipated maturity: 2012-2015. No one has done more to put the Valle d’Aosta on the map of consumers in this country than Les Cretes and proprietor Costantino Charrere. This is a strong set of new releases that highlight the unique qualities of the Valle d’Aosta’s many indigenous red and white varieties. Importer: Domaine Select, New York, NY; tel. (212) 279-0799