The 2013 Barbera d'Alba Quattro Fratelli is a very pretty expression of the grape that would make a perfect companion to cheese platters or fried mozzarella sticks. It offers a large dose of plump, ripe, red cherry fruit backed by crisp acidity that is characteristic of this grape. That freshness makes it a fitting partner to fatty foods or butter-based sauces. Contrary to those food pairing suggestions, this wine is never heavy or over-extracted. In fact, the mouthfeel shows tonic tension and soft structure.

An elegant version, sporting cherry, raspberry, briar and tobacco flavors. Vibrant and balanced, with just a hint of tannins on the lingering, mouthwatering finish. Drink now through 2017. 4,300 cases made, 2,000 cases imported.??–BS??Region: Italy / Piedmont / Barbera d'Alba Select to Add

The 2011 Barbera d’Alba Quattro Fratelli is a plump and modern expression of Barbera that shows broad layers of spice and toast behind bright cherry fruit. The finish is supple and juicy. Although the wine is considerably softer than traditional interpretations of Barbera, it is not exaggeratedly so. In fact, it colors neatly between the lines so to speak. Anticipated maturity: 2013-2016. Having already dabbled in the textile and publishing industries, Silvano and Elena Boroli (now with their son Achille) moved their attention to winemaking in the mid 1990s. They built the showcase La Brunella winery in Castiglione Falletto (the building is entirely encased in barrel staves) with state-of-the-art equipment and a panoramic tasting room. Walk onto the property and the feeling you get is more Napa Valley than Piedmont. Importer: Dalla Terra Winery Direct, Napa, CA; tel. (707) 259-5405

Broad and juicy, evoking blackberry, black cherry and a touch of black pepper, this is supple and suave, with good grip on the finish. Drink now through 2015. 6,250 cases made.??–BS??Region: Italy / Piedmont / Barbera d'Alba Select to Add

The 2007 Barbera d'Alba Quattro Fratelli is a gorgeous fleshy wine loaded with ripe red fruit, spices, mint and licorice. Floral notes reappear on the finish to round out this well-balanced red. Anticipated maturity: 2009-2011. Importer: Dalla Terra, Napa, CA; tel. (707) 259-5405