I am not convinced by the 1996 Barbera d'Alba's balance. It reveals extremely high acidity (typical of Barbera), which translates into shrillness in the mouth. The moderately intense nose of strawberry fruit, rose petals, and spice is promising. The wine possesses weight and richness, but oh, the acidity. This wine should last easily for a decade.The two most famous Conternos are Giacomo, who produces these wines, and his near-by neighbor, Aldo. Both are legends in Piedmont, with the wines of Giacomo Conterno about as traditional as can be found in our high-tech world. In contrast, Aldo Conterno's wines tend to be a synthesis in style between modern day techniques, and the more artisanal methods of the past.Importer: Vin Divino, Chicago, IL; tel. (773) 334-6700