The 2008 Langhe Rosso Monpra comes across as a touch compact and light in this vintage. The oak is a bit pronounced, suggesting the fruit lacks a measure of richness and stuffing to fully handle the oak. Sweet dark cherries, flowers and spices are some of the aromas and flavors that take shape in the glass. Anticipated maturity: 2013-2018. Importer: Empson, USA, Alexandria, VA; tel. (703) 684-0900

The 2007 Langhe Rosso Monpra is beautiful in this vintage. The Monpra explodes onto the palate with layers of exuberant fruit, sweet spices, French oak, grilled herbs and violets, showing terrific depth all the way through to the racy finish. I am not a huge fan of the Piedmont blends, but this is just about as good as it gets. Anticipated maturity: 2014-2022. Importer: Empson, USA, Alexandria, VA; tel. (703) 684-0900