Slightly muddled upon first examination, the 2009 Barolo Marenca attains aromatic sharpness after a few brief moments the way a movie projector reaches focus on the big screen. This is a youthful and fleshy expression of Nebbiolo with a fruit-driven bouquet of cherry, wild berry and prune. With a few stern swirls of the glass, it reveals herbal tones with licorice and menthol notes. Those beautiful characteristics linger long on the palate. Marenca is firmly tannic with the bright acidity necessary for cellaring. Anticipated maturity: 2018-2030. Gianpaolo Pira feels an enormous attachment to his land of origin, Serralunga d’Alba, with its vineyards, rolling landscapes and secret truffle locations. His goal is to produce wines that capture the spirit of his territory. Serralunga d’Alba is a wildly beautiful and dramatic corner of the Barolo appellation. It’s the most rustic and rugged of them all, and its vineyards usually produce the boldest expressions of Nebbiolo. He has largely succeeded at his task, although some wines are more elegant that others in 2009. Various American Importers, including: De Grazia Imports, Republic; MO; tel. (417) 732-1668; Michael Skurnik Wines, Syosset, NY; tel. (516) 677-9300; Robert Houde Wines, Park Ridge, IL; tel. (630) 422-1119

A burst of cherry and strawberry flavors highlights this elegant, expressive red. The tannins express themselves on the finish, but the fruit and structure dovetail. Slightly compact now. Best from 2015 through 2028. 900 cases made, 500 cases imported.??–BS??Region: Italy / Piedmont / Barolo Select to Add