Reviews

Best Buy. Layering strawberries, darker blueberries and chocolate, this is a wine of cushioned richness, satisfying in the way Napa Valley cabernet sets out to be. It's ripe and soft, ready for prime rib.

Expressive aromas of red berries and oak spice grace this polished red, whose tannins are kept at bay by the fleshy texture. Fresh and firm, with spice notes echoing on the finish. Best from 2016 through 2029. 60 cases imported. –BS

Spicy, with hints of sandalwood and incense shading the cherry and currant flavors. This is balanced and dry, delivering firm, dusty tannins on the finish. Best from 2016 through 2030. 100 cases imported. –BS

The 2010 Barbaresco shows a garnet hue on the rim and offers subdued tones of forest floor, autumnal leaves, licorice, cassis and dried cherries. It shows moderate layering and complexity and delivers a more immediate style. Anticipated maturity: 2013-2018. With large case productions capable of penetrating distant and emerging markets, Beni di Batasiolo has appeared as an important ambassador for the Barolo brand. A few years ago, Batasiolo opened the only five-star hotel accommodations in the Langhe called Il Boscareto with luxury rooms and the gourmet La Rei restaurant.

The fig and lemon flavors are accented by spice and toast notes in this open yet crisp white. Lingers, with the emphasis on the acidity for now.

Juicy blueberry and raspberry flavors make this a lean, simple red to drink this summer, whether as an aperitif or with a burger. (1,981 cases)

Great value. This is a distinct, supple Pinot Noir with ripe fruit character (plum, cherry, rose petal), good balance, and a medium long finish. Hard to beat at the price.

Supple and graceful, featuring delicate plum, cherry and rose petal flavors shaded by smoky oak. Displays elegant balance and mouthfeel, with a lingering finish

A rustic red, showing rich, intense flavors centered on dried dark berry, chocolate, cedary oak and dried herb. Ends with chewy tannins.

Strikes a delicate balance between ripe cherry and strawberry, with a dash of smoky oak.