Guide to Italian wines by Tom Hyland

I tasted 81 different Barbarescos from the 2000 vintage and was favorably impressed. The best of these wines were rich in fruit with lively acidity and googìd structure. Look for the finest examples to be at their best in 7 to 10 years.

Barbaresco Vigna Montersino Orlando Abrigo: 4 stars (excellent)

Bright ruby red. Cherry, sage and toasty oak aromas. Medium-full to full-bodied with excellent concentration. Refined tannins and lively acidity in the finish. Very complex with beautiful balance. Lovely food wine. Best in 7-10 years.

Barbaresco Vigna Rongallo Orlando Abrigo: 4 stars (excellent)

Bright ruby red with orange peel, dried cherry, tobacco and oak aromas. Medium-full to full-bodied with excellent concentration. Rich, ripe fruit with lively acidity, balanced tannins and perfectly integrated oak. Very stylish. Best in 7-10 years.