Clerico's saturated purple-colored 1997 Barolo Pajana offers a classic bouquet (reminiscent of a cross between Mouton and Lafite-Rothschild) of cedar wood, cassis, licorice, lead pencil, and mineral scents. The wine possesses abundant quantities of black fruit, tar, truffle, and cigar box flavors. A huge, monstrous Barolo, it is not one of the most forward 1997s, so 3-4 years of cellaring is recommended. Anticipated maturity: 2004-2020. 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

Clerico's saturated purple-colored 1997 Barolo Pajana offers a classic bouquet (reminiscent of a cross between Mouton and Lafite-Rothschild) of cedar wood, cassis, licorice, lead pencil, and mineral scents. The wine possesses abundant quantities of black fruit, tar, truffle, and cigar box flavors. A huge, monstrous Barolo, it is not one of the most forward 1997s, so 3-4 years of cellaring is recommended. Anticipated maturity: 2004-2020. 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

Dark ruby, with a brick red edge. Fabulous aromas, with wild strawberry, roses, sandalwood and milk chocolate. Full-bodied, with big, velvety tannins and a long, long finish. This is just a baby. Even better than I remember.--1997 Italian blind retrospective. Best after 2012. 100 cases made.??–JS??Region: Italy / Piedmont / Barolo Select to Add