This is a spectacularly powerful, rich, concentrated wine. The sriking resemblance of the 1996 Barolo Pajana to a top-class Pomerol is unmistakable. This massive wine possesses fabulous purity of fruit, and toasty, sweet pain grille that complements the wine's highly concentrated black cherry/chocolatey personality. Dense and layered, with considerable viscosity, low acidity, and moderate tannin in the impressive, long finish, it will be at its best between 2006-2020. One of the most gifted winemakers in Piedmont, Domenico Clerico has fashioned this riveting wine from the vineyards surrounding the village of Monforte d'Alba. Clerico utilizes rotary fermenters, and new oak. This a wine of extraordinary richness, amazing aromatics, and a sensual personality that satiates both the hedonistic and intellectual senses. 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

Seductive, with perfumed aromas of flowers and black cherries. Full-bodied, with loads of velvety tannins and a long, ripe fruit finish. Very ripe. Best after 2005. 515 cases made.??–JS??Region: Italy / Piedmont / Barolo Select to Add