The 2006 Nebbiolo d’Alba Valmaggiore is made from a vineyard in the emerging Roero district. It is an especially generous Nebbiolo in this vintage. Perfumed aromatics meld into super-ripe red cherries, spices, flowers and toasted oak. The wine offers outstanding depth and richness in a full-bodied, racy style. Anticipated maturity: 2008-2016. This is a very strong set of entry-level wines from Luciano Sandrone, one of Piedmont’s top growers. In a region full of outspoken, colorful producers, Sandrone remains soft-spoken and rather shy, but his wines speak for themselves rather eloquently. Importer: Vintus LLC, Pleasantville, NJ tel. (914) 769-3000

Aromas of chocolate, plum and light spice follow through to a medium body, with bright acidity and a delicate coffee and fruit finish. Drink now. 1,500 cases made, 460 cases imported.??–JS??Region: Italy / Piedmont / Nebbiolo d'Alba Select to Add

Sleek and focused, with well-defined cherry fruit and red flower notes. The full-bodied palate is tightly wound with accents of orange peel and black cherry. The finish drops a bit short. Drink over the next few years with flavorful pork dishes.——W.E.(2/1/2010)—— 87