The Cortese winemaking moxie really comes through in the gorgeous 2010 Barbaresco Rabaja. Notable elegance and finesse characterize the wine both in the mouth and on the nose. It shows harmony and clarity with defined nuances of dried berry, cassis, spice, dried mint and licorice that lift beautifully from the glass. The fine texture and polished mouthfeel are especially impressive. Anticipated maturity: 2015-2025. The estate was founded in 1971, when Giuseppe Cortese convinced his father to bottle wine instead of selling grapes. Today, it is run by the next generation of the family, Pier Carlo and Tiziana. They just finished enlarging their winery and the tasting room, with terraces that look out at the four hectares they own in the prestigious Rabaja cru. Importer: Winebow, Montvale, NJ; tel. (201) 445-0620

Bright, with cherry, strawberry and floral aromas and flavors, this is backed by a firm yet integrated underlying structure. Beautifully poised for development, so hands off for now. Juicy and long, delivering a lingering aftertaste of cherry, spice and mineral. Best from 2015 through 2027. 1,420 cases made, 500 cases imported.??–BS??Region: Italy / Piedmont / Barbaresco Select to Add