The 2009 Barbera d’Alba Piani is fabulous. Freshly cut flowers, red fruit and spices are just some of the nuances that flow from this pliant, hugely delicious Barbera. A hint of oak frames the finish, but the Piani is really about fruit. It is a beautifully balanced, totally harmonious wine of the highest level. I loved it. Anticipated maturity: 2012-2019. These are among the finest wines I have ever tasted from Giorgio Pelissero. The 2008 harvest was very much on the later side and began in mid-October. The Vanotu was aged in 100% new French oak barrels, while the Nubiola and Tulin were aged approximately 60% in cask and 40% used French oak. Pelissero credits higher-quality barrels as one of the main reasons his wines are more elegant than in the past, but he isn’t giving himself enough credit. Importer: Vinifera Imports, Ronkonkoma, NY; tel. (631) 467-5907

An exotic version, showing boysenberry and black cherry flavors, with a hint of bittersweet chocolate. There are some dusty tannins on the finish. Drink now through 2015. 4,000 cases made, 1,100 cases imported.??–BS??Region: Italy / Piedmont / Barbera d'Alba Select to Add