The 2011 Nebbiolo d'Alba shows saturated color and density and delivers soft, plushness but also some bitterness in the background. The alcohol clocks in at 15%, and it definitely registers. This wine is aged in barrique for 12 months.

There’s a subdued, elegant feel to this Nebbiolo-based wine that gives it a feminine, understated aura. Firmly silky tannins are followed by small berry, tobacco and cola flavors. ——M.L.(9/1/2011)—— 89