The 2006 Barbera d’Alba Superiore Santo Stefano di Perno is quite possibly the finest vintage of this wine I have ever tasted. All of the elements come together beautifully. The wine opens up to reveal bright ripe fruit and expressive aromatics, showing superb clarity and detail. The slightly herbal qualities the Santo Stefano typically presents are beautifully balanced in this vintage. The 2006 Barbera Santo Stefano is another wine Mascarello fans will not want to miss. Anticipated maturity: 2010-2016. Proprietor Mauro Mascarello has turned out two very pretty 2005 Barolos, but did not bottle his Villero as he waited until after the rains to pick the fruit and by that time the quality in the vineyard had been compromised. There is also no Ca d’Morissio in 2005, as that juice was blended into the Monprivato. Although Mascarello is best known for his Barolos, his entry-level wines also merit serious consideration. Although Mascarello’s Barberas aren’t as well-priced as they once were, they are capable of delivering tons of class and elegance. Readers who want to learn more about this iconic Barolo estate may want to check out my recent article on www.erobertparker.com. Importers: Doug Polaner, Polaner Selections, Mt. Kisco, NY; tel. (914) 244-0404, The Rare Wine Co., Sonoma, CA; tel. (707) 996-4484

Some animal aromas mark this red, along with violet, cassis and mineral flavors. This is vibrant, building nicely to an aftertaste of black currant and mineral. Drink now through 2013. 330 cases made.??–BS??Region: Italy / Piedmont / Barbera d'Alba Select to Add