2010 Barbaresco

The garnet-ruby 2010 Barbaresco opens with beautifully etched aromas of flint, red berry, cassis, licorice and dried mint. The wine is tight and elegant on the finish but imparts noteworthy complexity as it warms and evolves in the glass. There’s a crisp brightness to the mouthfeel that is enhanced by the wine’s bright acidity and its young tannins. Anticipated maturity: 2014-2025. Until recently the vineyards of Cascina Bruciata (“house on fire”) produced fruit that was purchased by Gaja and the Giacosa brothers of Neive among others. Marino Balbo (father) would have continued on this path were it not for the wish of his son Carlo who wanted to bottle a family wine instead. In 2000, Carlo established the brand Cascina Bruciata. He owns 7.5 hectares including three in the celebrated Rio Sordo cru. He will be releasing his first Barbera d’Alba later this year. This relative newcomer is full of delightful surprises. Winemaker Francesco Baravalle has done a terrific job. Various American Importers, including: Soilair Selection, New York, NY; tel. (646) 244-4922; Villa Italia, San Francisco, CA; tel. (415) 760-7400; Enoteca Diana, Pittsburgh, PA; tel. (412) 341-9463