The 2007 Monferrato Mompertone (60% Barbera, 40% Syrah) is a juicy, rewarding wine. Still rather backward, this richly-textured offering is packed with jammy dark fruits, herbs, tar, smoke and minerals. With another few months in bottle, the Mompertone should be terrific. This French oak-aged blend of Barbera and Syrah is in just its third vintage, but the combination undoubtedly works very nicely here. Anticipated maturity: 2010-2017. I was very impressed with the wines I tasted from Prunotto this year. The Barolos and Barbarescos in particular are wonderful. A Leonardo Lo Cascio Selection, Winebow, Montvale, NJ; tel. (201) 445-0620

Milk chocolate notes, with vanilla and crushed dark berries, follow through to a medium body, with fine tannins and a fruity finish. Modern and generous. Drink now. 4,000 cases made, 600 cases imported.??–JS??Region: Italy / Piedmont / Monferrato Select to Add