This is the wine that made Angelo Gaja a household name worldwide. Made according to Barbaresco tradition, the wine reveals itself slowly at first and doles out small aromas of wild berry, licorice, root beer, smoke and graphite that become magically more intense with time in the glass. The acidity, tannic factor and overall sophistication show harmony and masterful balance. Hold until 2018, at least.

All readers need to do is taste the 2007 Barbaresco to get a sense of the promise the vintage holds at Gaja. Soft and seamless on the palate, the Barbaresco shows wonderful integrity in its fruit in an opulent, yet mid-weight style. Fragrant, perfumed aromatics are woven throughout, while an attractive spiciness develops in the glass. There is incredible depth to the fruit and simply phenomenal overall balance. Readers will not want to miss this Barbaresco; arguably Gaja’s finest since 1997. Anticipated maturity: 2017-2032. - AG

From Angelo Gaja's estate, this Barbaresco is bold and beautiful in 2007. Sweet tannin, earth and mushroom flavors tumble out of its bosky cherry fruit, at moments voluptuous and heady, at others under tight control. There's a touch of greenness to this vintage, a fresh tobacco-like edge that's gracefully incorporated into the fruit. For now, depending on when you catch it, the tannin or the fruit may be dominant, the wine needing ten years or more to settle in. Already quite beautiful, this will reward aging.

Bright, rich and powerful, boasting oak spice that adds interest to its cherry, licorice and tobacco flavors. Shows fine intensity and a chewy texture. Initially a little dry on the finish, but with extended aeration, this gets better and better, with a long aftertaste of sweet spice. Best from 2013 through 2028. 100 cases imported. –BS