The 2009 Barolo delivers ripe fruit aromas of prune, cassis and candied berry. The mouthfeel shows a touch of softness with follow-up aromas of coffee bean, carob, leather and tobacco. This Barolo offers medium consistency with a broad, sweeping delivery of flavors that spreads wide across the palate. Anticipated maturity: 2015-2025. 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