The 2007 Barolo Santo Stefano di Perno rarely gets mentioned in a discussion of this great property but several recent vintages have been outstanding, which is the case with the 2007 as well. Sweet dark cherries, menthol, pine, minerals and flowers are some of the notes that flesh out in the glass. The 2007 is a striking Santo Stefano di Perno loaded with site specific detail but with an extra layer of richness that is the signature of the year. Clean, mineral notes frame the energetic, vibrant finish. This is every bit as fabulous as it was from barrel. Anticipated maturity: 2015-2027. This is a stellar showing from Mauro and Giuseppe Mascarello. The 2007 Baroli are stunning now that they are in bottle, but the Barberas are equally worthy of attention. As always, the style is very traditional, but in 2007 the steady warmth of the vintage has given the wines an extra dimension of fleshiness. The 2007 Monprivato in particular is shaping up to be another legendary Barolo from Mascarello. Importers: Doug Polaner, Polaner Selections, Mt. Kisco, NY; tel. (914) 244-0404, The Rare Wine Co., Sonoma, CA; tel. (707) 996-4484

Supple in texture—at least until the dusty tannins sweep in—this red is more about tar, leather, licorice and tobacco than sweet cherry fruit. Offers a rather gruff personality for the vintage, but in keeping with its origins. Menthol and tar notes linger on the finish. Best from 2016 through 2032. 415 cases made.??–BS??Region: Italy / Piedmont / Barolo Select to Add