The 1997 Barolo Vignolo (a Castiglione Falletto vineyard situated just west of Bricco Boschis, and northwest of the famed Monprivato vineyard) is an elegant, old style offering. The color is a dark plum/ruby. The bouquet offers sweet aromas of melted asphalt, kirsch liqueur, leather, dried herbs, truffles, and smoke. It is a pure, full-bodied, moderately tannic effort with classic breeding, terrific purity as well as balance, and a long finish. Anticipated maturity: 2004-2017.
A Marc de Grazia Selection, various American importers, including Michael Skurnik, Syosset, NY; tel. (516) 677-9300, Vin Divino, Chicago, IL; tel. (773) 334-6700, and Estate Wines, Ltd., San Rafael, CA; tel. (415) 492-9411