1 | Wine | Nebbiolo | Page 12

"An elegant, perfumed wine. Polished and elegant throughout, the Castelletto reveals attractive inner perfume and lovely red fruit, all framed by silky tannins."

"Strawberry, orange peel, cocoa powder and graphite on the nose. Sweeter and more seamless than the Rocche, showing strong acidity but a better early balance. Finishes long, brisk and perfumed, with a strong acid impression accentuated by a mineral firmness." Reviewed by Stephen Tanzer

"The 2008 Barolo Bricco Fiasco is a big, serious wine endowed with layers of black fruit, iron, smoke, licorice and tar. Some of the brighter, higher-toned aromas that are often present in this vineyard are missing in 2008. Instead readers will find a big, full-bodied Barolo graced with exceptional overall balance and tons of energy. The energy and focus of the virile finish is something to behold."

"It is impossible to ignore the wine’s richness and depth, both of which are impressive. With time in the glass hints of sweet roses, cherries, spices and tar emerge, all framed by impeccably silky tannins. As always, readers should taste this wine as soon as possible, as it will almost certainly head for a slumber during which it will be impossible to evaluate with any accuracy. Today, this mid-weight, graceful Barolo Cascina Francia looks to be accessible relatively early, which means around age 10-12 give or take. It is another superb Barolo from Giacomo Conterno." 95+ pts.

"The 2006 Barolo Rocche shows incredible definition in detail in its perfumed, floral personality. The 2006 is not as explosive as the 2004 was at this stage, but it is eerily reminiscent of the 1989 in its sweet, Pinot-like fruit. With time in the glass, the fruit gains even more clarity while the bouquet blossoms with incredible grace, all supported by ultra-fine, silky tannins. Today the Rocche is soft and relatively accessible, but it is sure to firm up in bottle."

"The 2007 Barbaresco Asili is a striking, elegant wine. Sweet roses, minerals, flowers, menthol and minerals emerge from this firm yet intensely perfumed Barbaresco. The wine reveals gorgeous weight and textural richness in a firm style that requires patience."

"Offers Christmas pudding, currant and other dried fruit. Full-bodied, with amazing concentration of ripe fruit and chewy tannins. Yet it's all in balance. Monumental."

"The 2006 Barolo Brunate flows from the glass with a powerful, brooding expression of fruit. As is often the case, the Brunate presents dark, burnished tones that are a marvel to behold. The wine’s stunning depth and richness caress the palate all the way through to a mineral-infused harmonious finish. This is another fantastic Barolo from Roberto Voerzio loaded with vintage and vineyard character. It is not to be missed."

"Subtle aromas of rose and blackberry follow through to a full body, with fine tannins and a fresh finish. Chewy. Unfolds on the palate. Layered and beautiful. Refined yet structured."

"Focused and energetic in its ripe red fruits, menthol, spices and minerals. There is lovely depth in the glass, not to mention tons of balance. This is a beautiful, poised Barbaresco from Vietti. The Masseria will require considerable patience but its balance is impeccable."