2009 Giorgio Pelissero Barbera d'Alba Piani

(93 Points) The 2009 Barbera d’Alba Piani is fabulous. Freshly cut flowers, red fruit and spices are just some of the nuances that flow from this pliant, hugely delicious Barbera. A hint of oak frames the finish, but the Piani is really about fruit. It is a beautifully balanced, totally harmonious wine of the highest level. I loved it. Anticipated maturity: 2012-2019.

These are among the finest wines I have ever tasted from Giorgio Pelissero. The 2008 harvest was very much on the later side and began in mid-October. The Vanotu was aged in 100% new French oak barrels, while the Nubiola and Tulin were aged approximately 60% in cask and 40% used French oak. Pelissero credits higher-quality barrels as one of the main reasons his wines are more elegant than in the past, but he isn’t giving himself enough credit. Wine Advocate #197 Oct 2011