Marenca, far less known, is not one whit inferior to Vigna Rionda as a vineyard, and the 1999 Barolo Marenca is simply superlative. Explosively sweet and ripe with a noseful of plum and wild cherry fruit, raisins, chocolate, and licorice, it cascades over the palate with its lush dense fruit, tar, minerals, mocha, and melted asphalt flavors. Packed, potent, caressing, and sumptuous, Serralunga all the way, it defines modern-style Barolo in the greatest part of the zone. Anticipated maturity: 2005-2025.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