The 2001 Barolo Brunate is a bit more forward in its bouquet than it is in its flavors. Otherwise, it has aged quite well. There is plenty of power and richness in the dark red fruit, flowers, mint and menthol. I would prefer to drink this within the next few years, while the fruit retains its presence. Anticipated maturity: 2012-2019. These 2001s were made during a transitionary period in Vietti’s history. I was quite pleased to see the wines show so well after the more mixed 2000s I tasted last year. As good as these 2001s are, it is also pretty clear Vietti has since moved comfortably into the upper echelon of Barolo producers, something that wasn’t the case a decade ago. In a lot of ways, the 2001s are the vintage that marks Vietti’s ascension to superstar status. I remember first tasting these wines when they had been bottled, but weren’t yet released. They were impressive then and they are just as impressive today. Vietti fans might also be interested in a recent vertical of the flagship Villero Riserva, which includes my thoughts on the 2001, and that we recently posted on www.erobertparker.com Importer: Dalla Terra, Napa, CA; tel. (707) 259-5405

The 2001 Barolo Brunate presents a nose of toasted oak, spices, and minerals. It is quite round and soft-textured, with flavors of rich dark stewed fruit and licorice, closing with a very long, exquisite finish. I typically find the oak a bit overwhelming when this wine is young, but in my experience it tends to integrate with a few years of cellaring. It is a delicious Barolo. Anticipated maturity: 2009-2019. Importer: Remy Cointreau USA, New York, NY; tel. (212) 424-2204

Masses of ripe fruit and new wood on the nose in this young red. Full-bodied, with velvety, chewy tannins and a long, long finish. Full-blown style for Vietti. Best after 2008. 220 cases made, 100 cases imported.??–JS??Region: Italy / Piedmont / Barolo Select to Add