Vietti’s 2007 Barbera d’Alba Tre Vigne is a more seamless, round wine than the Asti Tre Vigne. There is a wonderful purity to the fruit here, along with a supple, creamy finish. This, too, is a very serious effort, especially for the money. The 2007 Barbera d’Alba Tre Vigne is made predominantly from vineyards in Castiglione Falletto (including a portion of Scarrone), with a touch of fruit from Ravera. It is another compelling value from Vietti. Anticipated maturity: 2009-2012. Vietti’s commitment to quality across their entire range is commendable. I can’t think of too many estates that can match Vietti for the number of utterly delicious bottlings that emerge from these cellars in Castiglione Falletto. Both 2006 and 2007 are highly successful vintages for the estate’s Barberas. In recent years Vietti has moved towards a greater use of large, neutral oak for their Barberas and, as these wines amply show, the results are striking. These pure Barberas are exceptional from top to bottom, and even better, they are utterly divine at the dinner table. Importer: Dalla Terra, Napa, CA; tel. (707) 259-5405

Blackberry jam on the nose. Full-bodied, with soft, round tannins and a ripe fruit aftertaste. Drink now. 3,000 cases made, 800 cases imported.??–JS??Region: Italy / Piedmont / Barbera d'Alba Select to Add