2001 Produttori del Barbaresco

Piedmont is the motherland for the Nebbiolo grape, where it reaches its highest expression in Barolo and Barbaresco. In 2001, Produttori del Barbaresco, known for its single vineyard wines, produced a regular Barbaresco that’s earthy and supple, and very classic. In a world where Barbaresco is $40 or up, depending on the fame of the producer, this is an astonishing opportunity to drink one from a great vintage for under $30. For Nebbiolo fans, it’s a rare bargain that’s worth buying up in quantity. Drink it now, drink it later, but drink it.

This wine is tremendously food-friendly, a great match for braised meats such as brasato al Barbaresco, roasted veal shank, rabbit with peppers and chicken fricassee.

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Quick swirl

Region: Piedmont

Price: About $26

Style: Earthy and supple

Food it goes with: Braised meats, veal shank, rabbit or chicken fricassee

Where you find it: Beverages & More in Torrance, (310) 543-9170, Pasadena, (626) 356-9462, and West Hollywood, (323) 882-6971; John & Pete’s Fine Wines & Spirits in West Hollywood, (310) 657-3080; Mission Wines in South Pasadena, (626) 403-9463; Wine House in Los Angeles, (310) 479-3731

-- S. Irene Virbila