The 2006 Barbaresco Rabaja is a soft, beautiful wine. Initially somewhat reticent, with air the Rabaja opens up to reveal a profile of dark red cherries, tar, smoke and menthol. Despite its medium-bodied frame, the wine offers plenty of depth and concentration in a refined style. The Rabaja is aged in medium-size neutral oak casks. Anticipated maturity: 2012-2026. This is easily the finest and most consistent set of wines I have ever tasted from Cortese, particularly among the entry-level bottlings, where in the past quality has been irregular. A Leonardo Lo Cascio Selection, Winebow, Montvale, NJ; tel. (201) 445-0620

Cherry and dried mushroom aromas lead to a medium-bodied palate, with clean, fresh fruit and firm tannins. A little lean, but clean and pretty. Best after 2010. 1,400 cases made, 500 cases imported.??–JS??Region: Italy / Piedmont / Barbaresco Select to Add