The 2006 Barolo Costa Grimaldi reveals superb intensity in its dark cherries, violets, menthol and spices. Medium to full in body, the Costa Grimaldi reveals exceptional length all the way through to the pure, finessed finish. This is the most powerful of the estate’s 2006 Barolos. It is a magnificent Barolo from Einaudi. Anticipated maturity: 2016-2026. Over the last few years Einaudi has settled into an approach that successfully combines elements of modern and traditional approaches. In 2006 the Nebbiolo harvest took place during the first half of October. The Barolos were fermented in stainless steel, and aged first in French oak and subsequently in larger, neutral casks. Einaudi is among the properties in Piedmont moving in a direction that increasingly favors large oak over small French oak barrels. Importer: Empson, USA, Alexandria, VA; tel. (703) 684-0900

Costa Grimaldi is a spectacular wine that surprises with every sip thanks to its intensity and the extraordinary quality of its mouthfeel. Initially, the wine is soft and yielding with tones of red cherry, chocolate, cola, licorice and mineral. It grows even more opulent and velvety in the mouth thanks to its fine texture and tannins. Keep this wine in your cellar ten years plus.——M.L.(12/1/2010)—— 96