Top-value nebbiolo

 

Nebbiolo, the great red variety from Italy's Piedmont, is best known for its expressions in Barolo and Barbaresco, which typically require years of aging before the wines are truly accessible. It's possible, however, to find more approachable nebbiolos that can be enjoyed in their youth.

One of them is Renato Ratti's excellent 2007 "Ochetti" Nebbiolo d'Alba. It's only moderately tannic with notes of dark cherry, earth and cedar. It's also a top value at about $20. Imported by Dreyfus, Ashby & Co., New York.