This firm has been making spectacular wines recently. Their 1988s are excellent, and their 1989s potentially superb. These two Barberas offer ripe, spicy fruit, an enticing perfume of tomatoes and herbs, and excellent fat and glycerin to balance out their naturally high acidity. The 1989 displays the super-ripeness that was easily attained in this vintage, but it does not yet boast the complexity of the 1988 Barbera d'Alba-Pian Romulado. The latter wine is a big, opulent, deep Barbera with surprising length and complexity. Both wines should drink well for the next 4-5 years, possibly longer. Importer: Empson (USA), Alexandria, VA.