The 2009 La Villa (Barbera, Nebbiolo) fleshes out beautifully on the palate with layers of expressive dark fruit, flowers, spices and mint. This is a gorgeous La Villa endowed with tons of class and intensity. The presence of Nebbiolo gives the wine its underlying structure and adds a measure of perkiness on the finish. Anticipated maturity: 2014-2029. This is a stellar set of wines from Elio Altare. The 2008 Nebbioli were brought in between October 7 and 10, which is a bit late for this estate. The 2008s have a Pinot-like sweetness that is incredibly appealing. Experiments with a fully destemmed Barolo continue. It will be interesting to see how those wines develop over the coming years, but so far the results are intriguing, to say the least. The biggest piece of news, however, is a new lease on a parcel of Cannubi, of which there are now five barrels resting in the cellar with vintage 2011. The new addition will console Altare fans over the loss of the Barolo Brunate, which will no longer be made, as Altare lost access to that fruit after the 2011 harvest. Various American importers, including Michael Skurnik, Syosset, NY; tel. (516) 677-9300; Estate Wines Ltd., San Rafael, CA; tel.(415) 492-9411; Robert Houde Wines, Elk Grove Village, IL; tel. (847) 430-3887

Laced with vibrant flavors of black cherry, raspberry, smoke and spice, this red combines bright fruit with a firm structure. Slightly hot in the balance, but with undeniable exuberance. Drink now through 2016. 225 cases made.??–BS??Region: Italy / Piedmont / Langhe Select to Add