The 2005 Barbaresco Asili is one of the finer wines I can recall tasting here in some time. The nose alone is gorgeous. A sweet, inviting bouquet leads to ripe red cherries, spices and sweet toasted oak that flow from the wine’s soft-textured frame, with high-toned notes of menthol that resonate on the long finish. The tannins, while firm, are also quite refined and elegant, even at this stage. The 2005 Asili possesses terrific inner sweetness that will be even more compelling once the tannins melt away. Anticipated maturity: 2009-2020. This is a very solid set of wines from Michele Chiarlo, a producer who seems to be moving in the right direction with regards to quality.Importer: Kobrand Corp., Purchase, NY; tel. (914) 253-7756

Shows ripe and fruity aromas, with hints of coffee. Medium- to full-bodied, with chewy tannins and a long finish. This has loads of flavor. Best after 2011. 310 cases made. -JS

Firm and tonic with lingering aromas of leather, licorice, red currant and road tar, this is a textbook example of Barbaresco. The wine is deep and penetrating thanks to the vertical and immediate nature of its aromas, but it is layered and long-lasting at the same time. Drink after 2012.——M.L.(4/1/2009)—— 92