The 2000 Barolo Gavarini Vigna Chiniera is a big wine that has yet to develop much in the way of tertiary nuance. It shows terrific persistence on the palate, with layers of super-ripe fruit and seamless personality. The 2000 isn’t the most complex Chiniera, but it will deliver plenty of pleasure over the next decade-plus. Thus far, it has aged exquisitely. Anticipated maturity: 2011-2020. Elio Grasso is among the growers who captured the essence of 2000. Grasso remains one of the most overlooked, under the radar producers in Piedmont. I buy the wines every year, but never seem to be able to keep my hands off the bottles. The estate’s 2000 are marvelous.

A lovely mixture of strawberries and cherries with hints of raspberries. Almost tropical. Full-bodied, with silky tannins and a gorgeous ripe fruit finish. Very velvety. Goes on and on. Best after 2008. 1,080 cases made, 380 cases imported.??–JS??Region: Italy / Piedmont / Barolo Select to Add