The 2007 Barbera d’Alba Fides is one of the best versions of this wine I can remember tasting. It is also unusually closed and tight for the vintage, but over time layers of ripe, perfumed fruit emerge with superb clarity and precision. The Fides reveals gorgeous persistence on the palate and terrific overall balance. Ideally it is best opened in advance or given another year or two in bottle, either of which will help soften the tannins. Readers should expect a fairly buttoned up, precise glass of Barbera. Anticipated maturity: 2012-2017. Importer: Maisons Marques & Domaines USA, Inc., Oakland, CA; tel. (510) 587-2000

A little subdued now, but impressive chocolate, coffee and ripe berry aromas follow through to a full body, with velvety tannins and lots of fruit. Big and juicy. Structured. Drink now. 415 cases made, 305 cases imported.??–JS??Region: Italy / Piedmont / Barbera d'Alba Select to Add