The 2004 Barolo Ginestra Casa Mate is a decidedly more masculine Barolo than the Gavarini. Made in a rich, weighty style, it reveals layers of deeply spiced, mentholated dark fruit, new leather and licorice sensations in an expression of Nebbiolo that engages all of the senses. It is a superb effort from one of Piedmont's unheralded producers. The soils in this parcel contain 70% clay and 30% sand. Anticipated maturity 2009-2022. Elio Grasso's wines are made in a unique, crisply articulated style that highlights balance and harmony over sheer power. -For our 2004 Barolos we did roughly 30 days of maceration in stainless steel, where the wines also completed their malolactic fermentations,- says Gianluca Grasso. -The wines were then racked into 25 hectoliter barrels where they aged for two and a half years. The Runcot saw 35-40 days of maceration and may spend up to 40 months in 100% new French oak.- Various American importers, including: Martin Scott Wines, Little Neck, NY; tel. (516) 327-0808; Langdon Shiverick Imports, Cleveland, OH; tel. (213) 483-5900; Classic Wine Imports, Norwood, MA; Admirality Beverage Co. Columbia Distributing Company, Portland, Oregon; tel. (503) 289-9600

Pretty aromas of plum, cedar and fresh flowers follow through to a full body, with fine tannins and a long, fresh finish. Delicate, yet structured and racy. Best after 2011. 1,090 cases made, 250 cases imported.??–JS??Region: Italy / Piedmont / Barolo Select to Add