The estate’s 2006 Barbaresco Albesani is rich, round and enveloping. There is wonderful richness to dark red fruit that comes through in spades in this generous, radiant Barbaresco. Spices, dried flowers and roses add complexity on the ample, broad shouldered finish. The intensity of the fruit from this south-facing vineyard covers the tannins nicely, but with time the wine’s power becomes more evident. This is another gem from proprietor Renato Vacca. Anticipated maturity: 2014-2026. Readers who haven’t discovered Cantina del Pino yet owe it to themselves to do so. Proprietor Renato Vacca is making some of the most compelling wines in Piedmont today. Along with Andrea Sottimano, Luca Roagna and Giorgio Pelissero, Vacca is one of the most promising producers among the younger generation in Barbaresco. Various American importers, including: Artisan Wine, Norwalk, CT; tel. (203) 866-4552; Cavatappi Distribution, Seattle, WA; tel. (206) 282-5226; Diamond Wine Merchants, Oakland, CA; tel. (510) 567-9897; Ideal Wine and Spirit Company Inc., Medford, MA; tel. (781) 395-3300

Smelling like shortbread and coconut, with a hint of Band-Aid, this red is intriguing and distinctive. A core of bitter almond and cherry picks up mineral as this plays out on the tannic finish. Best from 2013 through 2022. 200 cases made.??–BS??Region: Italy / Piedmont / Barbaresco Select to Add