The 2008 Barolo Costa Grimaldi reveals lovely freshness and vibrancy in its floral bouquet and delineated, nuanced fruit. Mint, licorice and sweet spices add lift and brightness throughout. The Costa Grimaldi is a bit on the delicate, feminine side in this vintage, but the balance remains compelling. In particular, the wine's focus and clarity on the finish show the qualities that make 2008 such a terrific vintage. Costa Grimaldi is made from the Via Nuova vineyard in Barolo, a cold site that does best in warmer years. In 2008, a cold year, the Costa Grimaldi comes across as compact and unyielding. If the wine fleshes out in bottle it could merit a higher score. Anticipated maturity: 2018-2028. Einaudi has been one of the great recent success stories in Piemonte over the last few years. Under the leadership of energetic proprietor Matteo Sardagna, Einaudi's Baroli have never been better. Importer: Empson, USA, Alexandria, VA; tel. (703) 684-0900

Wild flower, dried jasmine, wild berry, hazelnut and ginger open the beautifully fragrant bouquet. The mouthfeel is tight, elegant and silky with polished tannins and fresh menthol overtones. Give this wine 10 more years. — (9/1/2012) —92