Melding hints of oak and spice with a profusion of ripe cherries, this wine offers a harmonious aromatic start. The wine's fresh tart red berry flavors are balanced by a solid structure, while the presence of oak adds a distinct firmness to the wine, capturing the timeless essence of the region and delivering a harmonious interplay of tradition and flavor.

Black cherry, almond and earth flavors are the hallmarks of this solidly built red. Shows excellent cut and length, offering notes of iron and tamarind that seep in as this plays out on the long finish, Drink now through 2028. 900 cases made, 450 cases imported.

Showing more oak spice and a more modern sensibility, the 2021 Barbera D'Alba Santo Stefano is plush with toasted cedar, vanilla, boysenberry compote, and balsamic. It is full-bodied, with notes of black plum preserve, tea leaf, and forest earth, and is fairly long on the palate, with modest acidity and a good finish. For lovers of fruit-forward or New World-styled wines, this would be a great option to enjoy over the next 6-8 years.