The 2004 Roero Superiore Mombeltramo is made in a riper style than the Trinita. This expansive, generous red possesses plenty of floral, ripe fruit that blossoms on the palate with terrific poise and harmony. Anticipated maturity: 2009-2016. Malvira is an excellent source for the wines of Roero. Various American importers, including: Beverly Malen Imports Inc., Chicago, IL; tel.(773) 227-9463; Domace Vino, Shoreview, MN; tel. (612) 501-5799

The 2003 Roero Superiore Mombeltramo seems to have been more adversely affected by the heat than the Trinita. A light red, it offers attractive candied red fruit but the wine's balance is dominated by green hard tannins which clamp down on the finish. Bottle age is not likely to help much. Anticipated maturity: 2009-2015. Roberto Damonte is the proprietor of this estate in Roero. In the past I have enjoyed Malvira's various Arneis bottlings but in 2006 I found them disappointing. The top Roero bottlings were more convincing though like most Nebbiolos in this vintage, they clearly suffered from the effects of the scorching heat. Various American importers, including: Beverly Malen Imports Inc., Chicago, IL; tel.(773) 227-9463; Domace Vino, Shoreview, MN; tel. (612) 501-5799