The 1999 Barolo Per Cristina demonstrates the clear superiority of this vintage compared to 2000 – Ciabot Mentin Ginestra is Clerico’s best vineyard, but this year Per Christina his best wine. Very ripe on the nose, but with a freshness and vigor which make it seem like a very young wine indeed, its aromas of raspberry, anisette, and chocolate are accompanied by a powerhouse palate, very creamy and sensual in texture, strong and long with firm and caressing tannins and an explosive but sweet finish. It should be good for over 15 years of additional pleasure. 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

The 1999 Barolo Per Cristina demonstrates the clear superiority of this vintage compared to 2000 – Ciabot Mentin Ginestra is Clerico’s best vineyard, but this year Per Christina his best wine. Very ripe on the nose, but with a freshness and vigor which make it seem like a very young wine indeed, its aromas of raspberry, anisette, and chocolate are accompanied by a powerhouse palate, very creamy and sensual in texture, strong and long with firm and caressing tannins and an explosive but sweet finish. It should be good for over 15 years of additional pleasure. 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

Extremely ripe red with raisin, tobacco and spice character. Lovely toasted oak and coffee. Full-bodied, with chewy tannins and a silky, refined finish. Slightly mouth puckering now, but should reward those who are patient. Best after 2009. 470 cases made, 130 cases imported.??–JS??Region: Italy / Piedmont / Barolo Select to Add