2011 Cascina Luisin, Barbaresco, Rabaja

The 2011 Barbaresco Rabaja is a bigger wine (compared to the 2011 Barbaresco Paolin) that makes a bolder statement in this more difficult vintage. The fruit shows a ripe and round quality with lingering varietal tones of dried herb and licorice. The wine is tonic and balanced overall with a fine and enduring finish. Drink: 2016-2024. Founded in 1913, Cascina Luisin has been doing impressive work under current owner Roberto Minuto. The estate counts eight hectares of vine with headquarters in the Rabaja single vineyard subzones of Barbaresco. Importer: A. I. Selections, www.aiselections.com MALGRA 2011 BARBARESCO MONCIRALDO MOMBARUZZO ($29.00) RED 86 The 2011 Barbaresco Monciraldo is a simple, value wine with a bright quality of fruit and a good dose of oak spice at the back. The bouquet is redolent of one-dimensional aromas of dried cherry and creme de cassis followed by crushed granite and sweet licorice root. It is aged in new and neutral barrique. The mouthfeel is thin and moderately short. Drink: 2015-2020. Importer: Specialty Cellars, www.specialtycellars.com