The 2009 Barbaresco Bricco Asili is a pure joy to taste. Weightless and gracious, the 2009 wafts from the glass with the essence of freshly cut flowers, spices, red berries and crushed rose petals. The finesse of tannins elevates the Asili to a rarified air among the very best wines of the year. Seemingly endless layers of pure, textured floral fruit remain in the empty glass. This is a flat-out gorgeous wine in every way. I imagine the 2009 will enjoy a long and broad drinking window. Frankly, it is virtually impossible to resist today. Anticipated maturity: 2017-2029. It’s great to see Ceretto – one of Piedmont’s iconic families – doing so well after a lackluster period in the 1990s and early 2000s. Ceretto’s top 2009 Barbareschi are easily among the very best of the year. Importer: Wilson Daniels Ltd, St. Helena, CA; tel. (707) 963-9661

Cherry and licorice notes play off the dense, dusty tannins in this red. Shows fine tension between the elements, ending with a long aftertaste of sweet fruit and savory flavors. Best from 2015 through 2024. 420 cases made.??–BS??Region: Italy / Piedmont / Barbaresco Select to Add