There isn’t much of a need to actually taste the 2007 Barbaresco Roncaglie. The bouquet alone is extraordinary. Sweet roses, cherries, hard candy and flowers are woven together in a mid-weight yet generous fabric of unusual elegance. Today the tannins are a bit foreboding, but there is every reason to think this will develop into a hugely rewarding wine in a few years’ time. The purity of the fruit is striking, while the wine’s balance is compelling. I was struck by the firmness of the Roncaglie. It is one of the most structured 2007 Barbareschi I tasted. Anticipated maturity: 2015-2027. Importer: Empson, USA, Alexandria, VA; tel. (703) 684-0900

This has richness, but also an elegance and fluidity that deftly show off its raspberry, cherry, rose and spice aromas and flavors. Tends toward licorice as firm tannins shore up the finish. Best from 2013 through 2025. 1,391 cases made.??–BS??Region: Italy / Piedmont / Barbaresco Select to Add

This is an extremely distinctive and site-specific expression of Barbaresco from the celebrated Roncaglie cru. The wine is characterized by feminine, delicate tones of subtle Indian spice, pressed rose petal, violets and light vanilla or white chocolate. It boasts well-integrated freshness and finely polished tannins.——M.L.(12/1/2010)—— 91