From clay-and-sand soils in Monforte d'Alba comes this 2,000-bottle production, the Giacomo Grimaldi 2019 Barbera d'Alba Fornaci. It delivers all that you should expect of Barbera with the punchy, slightly raw qualities that are inherent to this grape. There is abundant blueberry and blackberry, with blue flower and potting soil on the fresh finish. Try it with gnocchi and porcini.

The 2008 Barbera d’Alba Fornaci comes across as a bit delicate, most of which is a function of the vintage. Sweet dried cherries, licorice and oak come together nicely in the glass. This is a delicate style, and somewhat diffuse on the finish, but quite pretty, especially if enjoyed over the next year or two. Anticipated maturity: 2011-2014. Importer: Banville & Jones Wine Merchants, New York, NY; tel. (212) 268-0906

Intense blackberry aromas, offering just a hint of plum. Medium-bodied, with fresh acidity and delicious fruitiness. Straightforward and tasty. Drink now. 300 cases made, 150 cases imported.??–JS??Region: Italy / Piedmont / Barbera d'Alba Select to Add

The 2007 Barbera d’Alba Fornaci is an elegant, mid-weight red laced with silky red fruit and sweet French oak. The Fornaci is a nicely balanced, supple wine, but it doesn’t quite capture the exuberance and sheer raciness that is typical of so many wines in this vintage. Anticipated maturity: 2010-2013. Importer: Banville & Jones Wine Merchants, New York, NY; tel. (204) 294-4899

This is very concentrated, with grape and blackberry aromas and hints of dark chocolate. Full and rich, with lots of fruit. Structured and rich. Drink now. 400 cases made, 200 cases imported.??–JS??Region: Italy / Piedmont / Barbera d'Alba Select to Add