The 2007 Barolo Cannubi/S.Lorenzo-Ravera emerges from the glass with sweet dark cherries, crushed flowers, menthol and spices. It is pure seduction, with effortless layers of fruit that blossom beautifully on the mid-palate and finish. I especially like the radiance and depth of the fruit. The Cannubi/S.Lorenzo-Ravera is a touch more marked by the vintage than the Brunate-Le Coste. Still, it is a striking Barolo from Giuseppe Rinaldi that won’t need too long in the cellar to offer its finest drinking. Anticipated maturity: 2015-2027. Giuseppe Rinaldi is the standard bearer for the traditional school of Barolo. Over the last few years Rinaldi’s wines have become more elegant, no doubt reflecting the increasing influence of Rinaldi’s daughter Marta. The 2007 Baroli are striking. They aren’t quite as profound as the 2006s, but that is perhaps asking too much. Readers who want to learn more about Rinaldi may want to check out my video on www.erobertparker.com. Importer: Vinifera Imports, Ronkonkoma, NY; tel. (631) 467-5907

With a blend of fruit from three important vineyard crus (mineral- driven Cannubi, elegant San Lorenzo and the more structured Ravera), this pretty wine gives an excellent overall view of Nebbiolo. The nose is redolent of forest fruit, raspberry, violet and soy sauce. ——M.L.(9/1/2011)—— 91