I was a little surprised with the forward nature of the 2004 Barbaresco Rabaja. The wine reveals a layered expression of dark fruit, leather, tobacco and spices in a soft-textured style for this wine. Quite honestly I expected a little more from this bottling, which has been one of my go-to Barbarescos in this price range for years. Anticipated maturity: 2009-2019. From top to bottom this is very strong set of wines from Cortese, something I haven’t always been able to say. A Leonardo Lo Cascio Selection, Winebow, Montvale, NJ; tel. (201) 445-0620

Aromas of blackberry and flowers follow through to a medium- to full-bodied palate, with fine tannins and a fresh finish. Pretty and balanced. Not a big wine, but harmonious. Best after 2010. 1,400 cases made, 500 cases imported.??–JS??Region: Italy / Piedmont / Barbaresco Select to Add