The Langhe hills of northern Italy's Piedmont region are the source of Italy's greatest reds - the incomparable Nebbiolo-based wines of Barolo and Barbaresco. Good Barbarescos and Barolos cost $45 - $75+, though, we have found a lovely alternative in Rivetto's exuberant 2004 Nebbiolo d'Alba. This is a distinctive red that shows the pure raspberryish fruit of the Nebbiolo at a very friendly price.

The bouquet of the Rivetto's '04 Nebbiolo is exquisite - a treat for Barolo lovers with its pure, focused raspberry and cherry fruit, its violet/floral complexity, and its subtle spicy nuances. On the palate, the '04 Rivetto Nebbiolo is veritably bursting with juicy, raspberryish Nebbiolo fruit. Although it is still very youthful, you can already sense the body of the wine and the range of attractive floral, herb and spice nuances. Supplies are limited so call soon to reserve some of this superb Baby Barolo for yourself.