A veneer of oak lends a resinous cast to this otherwise polished, long red. Cherry and blackberry notes keep this honest. Drink now through 2016. 150 cases imported.??–BS??Region: Italy / Piedmont / Barbera d'Alba Select to Add

Moving up a notch in toasted oak intensity, the 2009 Barbera d’Alba Ravera is almost over the top. It shows so much deep concentration and extraction, you are almost limited to pairing it with a taste that is equally bold, like a chunk of aged pecorino cheese, and nothing else. Black fruit is followed by jammy fruit and chewing tobacco. Anticipated maturity: 2013-2016. Centrally located in Barolo village, Marchesi di Barolo is a reliable producer of consistent, traditional red wines. Importer: Frederick Wildman and Sons, New York, NY; tel. (212) 355-0700

This celebrated Barbera d’Alba from the historic Marchesi di Barolo winery opens with a dark, brooding color and earthy aromas of wild mushroom, cured beef and dark forest fruit. It shows impressive color and concentration and those inviting earth, mineral notes would pair with elegant dishes such as game hen, roast duck or porcini risotto.——M.L.(9/1/2010)—— 90