The 2006 Pinot Nero Praepositus reveals greater density and richness than the normal bottling in its black cherries, wild herbs, spices and French oak. The wine spent 12 months in French oak barrels and needs another year or two in bottle to come together, but it is full of potential. Anticipated maturity: 2011-2018. Abbazia di Novacella is an excellent source for wines from Alto Adige loaded with varietal character. The entry-level whites (in the Alsatian-style bottles) are aged in steel. The entry-level reds are largely aged in cask while the wines from the top of the line Praepositus series see French oak.Importer: Vias Imports, New York, NY; tel. (212) 629-0200