Vajra’s 2003 Barolo Bricco delle Viole is simply breathtaking in 2003. The wine possesses extraordinary clarity and precision, with superb depth to its fruit and stunning overall balance. Bricco delle Viole is a relatively high-altitude plot and Barolos from this vineyard can often show a prominent nerviness to the tannins, but in 2003 the wine benefitted from the protection the site offers, while still capturing all of the best elements of the hot vintage. A bottle left open was still fresh and vibrant when I revisited it the next day. This is a remarkable effort. Anticipated maturity: 2008-2021. Aldo Vajra is one of the most underappreciated producers in Piedmont, but his wines are among the most consistently outstanding I taste each year. Importer: Martin Scott Wines, Little Neck, NY; tel. (516) 327-0808

Shows aromas of ripe strawberry and lemon. Full-bodied, with silky tannins and a slightly jammy, round finish. Best after 2008. 865 cases made, 250 cases imported.??–JS??Region: Italy / Piedmont / Barolo Select to Add