The 2009 Langhe Larigi (Barbera) comes across as a bit understated. Dark plums, cherries leather and licorice meld together nicely in the glass. Today the 2009 doesn’t quite have the opulence or radiance of many wines in this vintage. Layers of expressive fruit build to the textured, inviting finish. This is a very beautiful, if understated, Larigi. Anticipated maturity: 2014-2029. This is a stellar set of wines from Elio Altare. The 2008 Nebbioli were brought in between October 7 and 10, which is a bit late for this estate. The 2008s have a Pinot-like sweetness that is incredibly appealing. Experiments with a fully destemmed Barolo continue. It will be interesting to see how those wines develop over the coming years, but so far the results are intriguing, to say the least. The biggest piece of news, however, is a new lease on a parcel of Cannubi, of which there are now five barrels resting in the cellar with vintage 2011. The new addition will console Altare fans over the loss of the Barolo Brunate, which will no longer be made, as Altare lost access to that fruit after the 2011 harvest. Various American importers, including Michael Skurnik, Syosset, NY; tel. (516) 677-9300; Estate Wines Ltd., San Rafael, CA; tel.(415) 492-9411; Robert Houde Wines, Elk Grove Village, IL; tel. (847) 430-3887

In a modern vein, exhibiting black cherry and blackberry fruit tinged with vanilla and resin flavors. The pure fruit is matched to a fluid, glycerinelike texture. Fine length. Drink now through 2016. 225 cases made.??–BS??Region: Italy / Piedmont / Langhe Select to Add