Azelia’s 2001 Barolo, a medium ruby in color, displays a delicate nose of macerated cherries and spices along with classic flavors of red fruits, mint, minerals and licorice, with excellent length and freshness. Made from the estate’s younger vines, coming from 60% San Rocco and 40% Bricco Fiasco vineyards, it is a terrific normale to hold for another year or two and enjoy to age 12. Anticipated maturity: 2008-2013. Luigi Scavino may be less well known than some of his more famous neighbors, but make no mistake about it, the wines from Scavino’s estate, Azelia, can hold their own with the very best of the region. The wines combine power and elegance with a level of virtuosity matched by few in the region. Although the wines show much concentration and oak influence, there can be no doubt that the overall balance and sense of proportion of these wines is excellent. “My dream is to make a wine that is great today, but that will be even better in 10 years and in 20 years,” says Scavino. Speaking of his 2001s, Scavino says, “I prefer 2001 to 2000, it was a vintage with less heat, so the wines are fresher and more typical?more ‘Piedmontese’ if you will.” 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

Bright blackberry and cherry aromas here with hints of minerals. Full-bodied, with silky tannins and a long, caressing finish. Extremely well-crafted. Best after 2008. 880 cases made, 570 cases imported.??–JS??Region: Italy / Piedmont / Barolo Select to Add