The 2008 Montepulciano d'Abruzzo Vigna Franca is big, dark and powerful but lacks elegance in both its aromas and flavors. Fourteen months in French oak may have been too much. There is little to suggest this rustic red will improve in bottle. Anticipated maturity: 2011-2014.
This is a solid set of wines from Barba. As is often the case in the south, the lower-end wines deliver more bang for the buck than the more expensive selections.
Importers: Michelangelo Imports, New York, NY; tel. (212) 699-7021