The 2001 Pin is a blend of a certain popularity in Piedmont – Barbera and Nebbiolo with Cabernet. The wines arouse less enthusiasm than a few years ago, largely because of the strides made with Nebbiolo and Barbera on their own. But this is one of the best Rivetti has made, a blackish ruby with ample black currant-blackberry fruit, sweet herbs, solid and velvety tannins, and much freshness on the long, deep finish. Anticipated maturity: 2004-2016. A Marc de Grazia Selection, various American importers, including Michael Skurnik, Syosset, NY; tel. (516) 677-9300, Vin Divino, Chicago, IL; tel. (773) 334-6700, Estate Wines, Ltd., San Rafael, CA; tel. (415) 492-9411 and Bianco~Rosso Imports, Ltd., Seattle, WA 98108 tel: (206) 781-0702

A proprietary red wine made from a blend of equal parts Nebbiolo, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Barbera, the 1997 Pin vino da tavola presents an outstanding combination of concentrated red and black fruits, spicy vanillin, and huge, thick, juicy flavors. Since the new oak is more apparent, the wine should be cellared for 1-3 years, and drunk over the following decade. A Marc de Grazia Selection, imported by Michael Skurnik, Syosset, NY; tel. (516) 677-9300