Wines 1 through 5 were from Italy. But James brought one California label. I know for myself, that was very revealing as the fruit-forward nature of our local wine-making was very apparent in contrast to the tarter, simpler style of the Italian wine.

Photos from the evening and a few wine reviews await below.

Enjoy,

Tim

#1 2010 Barbera d’Asti Tre Vigne Vietti

(Winemaker description) Ruby purple color with ripe red cherry aromas with hints of mineral and vanilla. A dry, medium bodied red wine with refreshing acidity (making it perfect to pair with food) and soft tannins, the Barbera d'Asti Tre Vigne is well balanced with good integration of oak, good complexity and a finish of more red cherries.

#2 2005 Barbera d’Asti Quorum

RP 90pts 

The 2005 Barbera d’Asti Quorum is a big wine loaded with dark jammy fruit, licorice, smoke and tobacco. It shows plenty of delineation and freshness in a supple, vibrant style that is appealing. Quorum is unquestionably well made from a technical standpoint, but is a wine without passion. Anticipated maturity: 2012-2020

#3 004 Barbera d’Asti Prunotto Costamiole

RP 90pts

The 2004 Barbera d’Asti Costamiole presents a core of silky-textured fruit buffered by a vein of acidity that is the hallmark of Barberas from Asti. There is lovely density and richness here, along with notes of French oak and sweet spices that add an additional layer of complexity. Anticipated maturity: 2008-2012.

WS 90pts

Shows blackberry, cedar and vanilla bean, with just a hint of coffee on the nose. Full-bodied, with soft, silky tannins. Fruity and delicious. This proves how well Barbera can age when it's outstanding. Drink now. 500 cases made. –JS

#4 2010 Barbera d’Alba Sori del Drago

RP 91pts

The 2010 Barbera d’Alba Sori del Drago is refined, supple and quite beautiful. As is often the case, the estate’s Barbera needs quite a bit of air to open up and reveal the full breadth of its pedigree. Sweet dark raspberries, cloves and flowers are layered into the juicy finish. Anticipated maturity: 2012-2018.

#5 2010 Barbera Briccotondo

RP 87pts

The 2010 Barbera Briccotondo is a fresh, inviting wine to drink over the next few years. Sweet red berries and flowers are some of the flavors that jump out from this vinous Barbera. Anticipated maturity: 2011-2014.

WS 86pts

Smooth in texture, this blackberry-flavored red is juicy and fresh. Perfect on its own or with casual food like pizza and burgers. Drink now. –BS

#6 2009 Palmina Barbera Alisos (Lompoc,  California )

(Winemaker Description) Fifteen years ago, the wine that first launched Palmina to the wine world was that which is now named Alisos. The intent of this blend has always been one of extreme focus – a stylistic wine of concentration and structure that showcases the best of both the Sangiovese and Merlot grape varietals.

As always, the first clue as to the depth of Alisos is the deep garnet color. A swirl emits aromas of red fruit and spice that mingle with earthy nuances. The bouquet of boysenberry, grated fresh nutmeg and hints of loam invite a first sip that delivers layers of fresh and dried fruit notes to the palate. The first impression is textural, with velvety tannins and lively acidity mingling and accenting fruit notes of plum, mulberry, dark cherry and herbal notes of sage and lavender. High-tone notes are provided by the Sangiovese, with the Merlot adding structure and a dark base, all brought together on the mid-palate by the dried Sangiovese’s pleasing dried plum note with hints of fresh brioche. Elegant tannins are represented by a suggestion of baker’s chocolate and sarsaparilla on the lingering, persistent finish