Crisp, firm and focused, with a nice toasty-vanilla edge to the strawberry flavor that makes it rounder and silkier than most. Drinkable now. 400 cases made.??–null??Region: Italy / Piedmont / Barbera d'Alba Select to Add

Vietti's 1991 Barbera d'Alba from the excellent Pian Romualdo vineyard is lighter than usual, with an austere personality. I do not anticipate the emergence of more fruit, so drink it up over the next several years. Various importers, including Franklin Selections, Linthicum, MD.

The 1990 Barbera d'Alba Pian Romualdo is typical of what proprietor Alfredo Carrotto can produce. It exhibits a saturated dark ruby/purple color, a spicy, herb, vanilla, and black fruit-scented nose, medium to full body, adequate acidity, and plenty of glycerin and alcohol in the gutsy finish. Still young, it promises to keep for 10-15 years. Various importers, including Franklin Selections, Linthicum, MD.

Ripe and rich but unusually flavored, with concentrated chocolate, earth and herb flavors. Drink now.??–null??Region: Italy / Piedmont / Barbera d'Alba Select to Add

Well balanced, with distinctive earthy, gamy aromas and flavors, but not typical of the grape variety, making this a wine for those more tolerant of gaminess than we are. Tasted twice, with consistent notes.??–HS??Region: Italy / Piedmont / Barbera d'Alba Select to Add