The 2008 Langhe Nebbiolo is a pretty, delicate wine that faithfully captures the essence of the house style. Crushed flowers, strawberries and sweet herbs are some of the nuances that flow from this somewhat fragile Nebbiolo. Despite its somewhat fleeting, ethereal personality, the Nebbiolo shows lovely balance. Anticipated maturity: 2011-2016. Proprietor Mauro Mascarello is best known for his Baroli, but his entry-level wines also merit considerable attention. The wines are always released on the late side, so finding the time to review them can be a challenge, hence their inclusion in this issue. I also had a chance to taste Mascarello’s 2007 Baroli from cask and they are living up to the immense promise I sensed when I first sampled them a few years ago.Importers: Doug Polaner, Polaner Selections, Mt. Kisco, NY; tel. (914) 244-0404, The Rare Wine Co., Sonoma, CA; tel. (707) 996-4484

The 2001 Nebbiolo is an excellent example of Nebbiolo to be drunk young with its cherry and strawberry fruit, floral fragrance, light-grained tannins, and fine freshness. It is, nonetheless, a wine which will easily last another 3-4 years. Importer: Doug Polaner, Polaner Selections, Mt. Kisco, NY; tel. (914) 244-0404