The 2010 Barbera d’Alba Pistin impresses for its vibrant, bright personality and pure energy. The aromas are a bit reticent and could use a touch more finesse. Overall, the 2010 is a wine that stands out for its textural elegance. Other than the bouquet, this is a fine showing from Grimaldi. Anticipated maturity: 2012-2015. Ferruccio Grimaldi is best known for his Baroli, but I often find plenty of character in his entry-level wines as well. Importer: Banville & Jones Wine Merchants, New York, NY; tel. (212) 268-0906

The 2009 Barbera d’Alba Pistin is another very pretty, entry-level wine from Grimaldi. Sweet, round and polished, the Pistin impresses for its silky fruit and open, radiant personality. I especially like the juiciness here, and am quite curious to taste Grimaldi’s top Barbera, the Fornaci, in this great Barbera vintage. Anticipated maturity: 2011-2014. Importer: Banville & Jones Wine Merchants, New York, NY; tel. (212) 268-0906

The 2008 Barbera d’Alba Pistin flows from the glass with layers of mineral-infused dark fruit in a plump, juicy style best suited to near-term drinking. It is a terrific effort for the money. Anticipated maturity: 2010-2013. Importer: Banville & Jones Wine Merchants, New York, NY; tel. (204) 294-4899

Typical of this glorious Piedmont vintage, Grimaldi's 1997 Barbera d'Alba Pistin boasts a saturated black/ruby color as well as super-ripe (nearly overripe) black cherry and berry fruit that is liqueur-like in its intensity. There is enough acidity for balance in this big, thick, juicy Barbera. Drink it over the next 3-4 years. An excellent value. A Marc de Grazia Selection, imported by Michael Skurnik, Syosset, NY; tel. (516) 677-9300