Rocca’s 2007 Barbaresco bursts from the glass with generous dark red fruit, licorice, new leather, mint and spices. This forward, juicy Barbaresco possesses terrific balance and a warm, open personality that makes it an excellent choice for drinking over the next few years. The round, harmonious, beautifully delineated finish makes it impossible to resist a second taste. This is a superb effort from proprietor Angelo Rocca. Anticipated maturity: 2012-2020. These are three beautiful wines from proprietor Angelo Rocca. The house style seems to be moving towards a more elegant approach, and the early results are very promising. A Marc de Grazia Selection, various American importers, including: de Grazia Imports; tel. (417) 732-4200; Michael Skurnik, Syosset, NY; tel. (516) 677-9300; Estate Wines Ltd., San Rafael CA; tel. (415) 492-9411; Robert Houde Wines, Bensenville IL; tel. (630) 422-1119

This beautiful base Barbaresco from Albino Rocca (a family-run winery with 45 acres of vine) offers elegant and extremely floral aromas of blue flower, rose petal and cedar followed by bright shades of tar and licorice. The wine is firm and drying with polished tannins on the close. A Marc de Grazia selection; various American importers. ——M.L.(12/1/2010)—— 91