The 2007 Barbaresco is another of the entry-level wines that shows an unusual level of finesse and balance in this vintage. This mid-weight, feminine Barbaresco flows with the essence of berries, crushed flowers, minerals and spices in a delicate, feminine style. The wine gains volume and depth in the glass, but without abandoning what is a very classic, firm style. Beautifully fragrant throughout, Castello di Neive's 2007 Barbaresco captures many of the qualities that make Nebbiolo so alluring. A clean, refreshing finish rounds things out nicely. This is fabulous juice. Anticipated maturity: 2012-2022. Castello di Neive, one of the historic producers in Barbaresco, seems to fly under the radar, but the best of the wines are well worth discovering and offer terrific quality for the money. Importers: Bacchanal Wine Imports, Inc., New York, NY; tel. (646) 207-0115; Grassroots Wine Wholesalers, LLC; Birmingham, AL; tel. (205) 250-9060; Vintage Selections, Cape Canaveral, FL; tel. (321) 783-2700; West Park Imports, Sharon Hill PA; tel. (610) 532-3039; Castello di Neive MHW Ltd, Manhasset, NY; tel. (516) 869-9170

Bright and tonic, this cheerful Barbaresco delivers pretty aromas of perfumed spice, wild flowers, licorice and light shadings of talc powder. In the mouth, it offers an especially smooth and silky feel. Pair this elegant wine with lamb chops topped with crispy fried shallots.——M.L.(12/1/2010)—— 92