Rocca's 2005 Barbaresco Bric Ronchi is the most complex of his Barbarescos. The wine flows from the glass with layers of dark fruit, sweet French oak, minerals, menthol and licorice. This big, strapping wine could use another year or two in bottle to come together, but its ample potential is evident today. The Bric Ronchi was aged in French oak (40%) and larger cask (60%). Anticipated maturity: 2010-2020. Proprietor Angelo Rocca makes some of the most friendly, fruit-driven wines in Barbaresco. 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, and Estate Wines, Ltd., San Rafael, CA; tel. (415) 492-9411

Shows loads of strawberry jam on the nose. Full-bodied, with chewy tannins and lots of ripe fruit and oak. Needs time to come around. Best after 2012. 950 cases made, 600 cases imported.??–JS??Region: Italy / Piedmont / Barbaresco Select to Add

This vineyard-designate Barbaresco offers a very sweet nose of candied fruit, Christmas spice and nutmeg. There are earthy, mineral notes at the back that give it character and definition and the wine leaves a smooth and supple impression in the mouth. Drink after 2012.——M.L.(12/31/2009)—— 92