The 2009 Barbaresco Vanotu boasts tremendous depth, volume and sheer power. Layers of dark fruit are shaped by French oak in this radiant, layered Barbaresco. Sweet notes of mint, flowers and spices add complexity over time, but in my view, the French oak always remains a touch dominant. Still, this is a lovely effort. Anticipated maturity: 2017-2029. Pelissero is without question one of the top-tier estates in Barbaresco. Every wine in this lineup is solid and well worth seeking out. In particular, the 2009 Barbareschi are some of the very finest wines I have ever tasted here. The management of the tannins – such a problem at other estates – was expertly handled. Pelissero’s 2010 Barbareschi had been bottled just before my visit and were too closed down to properly evaluate. Importer: Vinifera Imports, Ronkonkoma, NY; tel. (631) 467-5907

Dark in color and modern in style, with oak spice framing black currant, violet and cherry flavors. Polished and well-balanced, if a bit oaky now and long. Not for traditionalists, but impressive. Best from 2015 through 2024. 950 cases made, 250 cases imported.??–BS??Region: Italy / Piedmont / Barbaresco Select to Add