Waves of dark fruit, flowers, menthol and licorice flow across the palate as the 2010 Barbera d’Alba Piani opens up in the glass. The 2010 impresses for its overall balance and sense of harmony. There is plenty of 2010 energy in this engaging, tasty Barbera. The Piani was aged in equal parts cask and barrique. Anticipated maturity: 2012-2016. 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

This is dense and tightly wound, exhibiting black cherry, tobacco and earth flavors. Finishes on the astringent side. Will benefit from time. Drink now through 2015. 3,500 cases made, 1,500 cases imported.??–BS??Region: Italy / Piedmont / Barbera d'Alba Select to Add