Vietti Tre Vigne Barbera d'Asti, 2013

Vietti is a very good producer of Barolo and Barbera, and this Tre Vigne bottling comes from well sited vineyards in three different areas near Barolo. At $15 to $18 a bottle, it is nearly always a good moderately priced choice.

Vibrant ruby red. Lush aromas of cherries, plums, almonds and vanilla. Elegant, medium bodied presence on the palate. Dried cherries, anise and almonds are prominent in the flavors. A pleasing austerity with flavors that open slowly and subtly through the meal. This is a good wine to order in its youth with a restaurant meal, but it also ages nicely over 8 to 10 years.