The 2009 Barbaresco shows personality and good cheer with a good dose of dried fruit and savory spice. There are some elements that make the wine seem more aged than it really is. Cured meat and old leather emerge. But then the wine suddenly surprises you with an entourage of Nebbiolo-based tones like dried mint and licorice that tell you it still has loads of life within. Anticipated maturity: 2014-2022. Produttori del Barbaresco is like that long-lost friend who always picks up a lively conversation no matter how many years have passed since your last meeting. It’s the ultimate fallback wine: It’s never intimidating or awkward. It’s always a pleasure to drink. Importer: Vias Imports, New York, NY; tel. (212) 629-0200

Bright cherry, strawberry, floral, licorice and herbal aromas and flavors highlight this fragrant, elegant red, which is silky and pure, with fine ripe tannins for support. Shows excellent length, with an aftertaste of fruit, spice and mineral. Best from 2015 through 2028. 23,333 cases made.??–BS??Region: Italy / Piedmont / Barbaresco Select to Add