The 2008 Barbaresco Vanotu is a rich seamless wine layered with dark fruit, mocha, espresso, spices and French oak. Sweet balsamic notes develop in the glass, adding further nuance and dimension on the powerful, resonant finish. This is a beautifully opulent yet mid-weight Barbaresco from Giorgio Pelissero. Anticipated maturity: 2015-2025. These are among the finest wines I have ever tasted from Giorgio Pelissero. The 2008 harvest was very much on the later side and began in mid-October. The Vanotu was aged in 100% new French oak barrels, while the Nubiola and Tulin were aged approximately 60% in cask and 40% used French oak. Pelissero credits higher-quality barrels as one of the main reasons his wines are more elegant than in the past, but he isn’t giving himself enough credit. Importer: Vinifera Imports, Ronkonkoma, NY; tel. (631) 467-5907

Deeply colored and polished, this is a fruity style revolving around a core of black cherry, with subtle spice and savory accents. The fine tannins are well-coated, and the finish is long. Best from 2013 through 2026. 750 cases made, 180 cases imported.??–BS??Region: Italy / Piedmont / Barbaresco Select to Add