The 2008 Barbera d’Alba Superiore is another impressive wine, but is a serious Barbera that needs at least a few years in bottle to come together. The delineation of the aromas and flavors lend an air of elegance and sophistication, while the wine’s inner perfume and sweetness are utterly captivating. I loved it. Anticipated maturity: 2014-2028. This is another superb set of wines from Aldo and Milena Vajra. What else is new? I am sure one day the Vajras will receive the broader recognition they so richly deserve. In the meantime, savvy readers know the exceptional quality these wines deliver for what remain very modest prices. Importers: Martin Scott Wines, Little Neck, NY; tel. (516) 327-0808, Rinascimento Wine Company, Los Angeles, CA; tel. (310) 270-3747

A supple, sophisticated red, whose smooth texture provides a foil for the black currant, raspberry and rosemary flavors. Intense and concentrated, with a fresh, powerful finish. Drink now through 2016. 545 cases made, 300 cases imported.??–BS??Region: Italy / Piedmont / Barbera d'Alba Select to Add