2008 Barolo

The 2008 Barolo offers a pretty succession of savory notes that span from bresaola and cigar box to dried fruit and prune. Despite the apparent, and beautiful, evolution of tertiary aromas on display, the wine continues to ooze with life and vitality. The silky, fine nature of the tannin is especially enjoyable. Anticipated maturity: 2015-2028. Since taking over this historic estate a few years back, the vision of proprietor Oscar Farinetti (inventor of the luxury Eataly grocer/food court multinational) and his son Andrea has played out seamlessly, like a movie with a final message of hope and happiness. They pledged to maintain the signature house style that is rooted in extreme tradition, and they have indeed followed through on that promise. All the wines are aged in botte grande made with Slavonian oak and the vineyard team has embarked on more aggressive tactics for sustainable farming. The estate has 16 hectares, of which ten are planted to Nebbiolo, including specific vineyard sites in the Liste, Fossati and Cannubi crus. These wines show charm, liveliness and personality. They are like a long-lost relative who embraces you at a family reunion. Importer: Domaine Select Wine Estates, New York, NY; tel. (212) 279-0799

Borgogno's 2008 Barolo is one of the most open young wines I have ever tasted from this historic property. Soft red cherries, plums, dried flowers, mint and spices all waft from the glass in a Barolo that shows the softer, more delicate side of the vintage. Sweet spices and mentholated notes wrap around the generous, inviting finish. This is yet another terrific showing from Borgogno.