The 2007 Barbera d-Asti Superiore La Court flows from the glass with an attractive warmth to its spiced dark red fruit. This is a wonderfully open, expressive Barbera from Chiarlo that impresses for its elegance and polish rather than for its heft. Anticipated maturity: 2010-2017. This is a strong set of new releases from Michele Chiarlo. I found that the Barbareschi and Baroli needed several hours of air to come together, so readers are advised to open these wines well in advance.Importer: Kobrand Corp., Purchase, NY; tel. (914) 253-7756

Here is a ripe and chewy Barbera d’Asti Superiore from the Nizza subzone with sticky fruit flavors and a thick, dense mouthfeel. The wine is plush, rich, naturally fresh and would pair well with roasted or grilled meats.——M.L.(9/1/2010)—— 90