Nebbiolo Prima – Barbaresco 2010 and Barolo 2009 Riservas

The underlying theme of the Nebbiolo Prima wine tastings (see our guide) in Alba last May showcasing Roero, Barbaresco and Barolo seemed to be excessive summer heat. The vintages presented, Roero and Barbaresco 2012 and Barolo 2011, have unusually high summer temperatures in common, even if the styles of these vintages couldn't be more different. While the 2011s show rich and at times jammy fruit with elevated alcohol levels, by a quirk of nature the 2012 vintage in Barbaresco was the very opposite with unusually fresh acidity and rather modest alcohol levels.

The last of the wines to be...