The 2009 Barolo Parafada (also a product of the rich, clay soils of Serralunga d’Alba) presents the darkest color of the three and bursts open with ripe flavors of dried blackberry, tobacco, used leather and licorice. But this is in no way a one-dimensional wine. It offers delightful endnotes of blue flower, peppermint, black mineral and cola that come as a pleasant surprise. The wine needs a few more years to open fully. Anticipated maturity: 2015-2028. The Massolino family has deep roots in the Langhe. Great-grandfather Giovanni Massolino founded the winery in 1896 and was the first to bring electricity and a steam-operated machine for harvesting grain to Serralunga d’Alba. Grandfather Giuseppe was one of the founders of the local winegrowers’ consortium in 1934 and father Giovanni bought the first single vineyard, Parafada. Today, the estate is run by siblings Franco, Roberto and Paola. Importer: Domaine Select Wine Estates, New York, NY; tel. (212) 279-0799

A bright, pure red, offering cherry and raspberry flavors accented by cedar, tobacco and woodsy notes. Linear and taut, presenting a firm grip of tannins, with plenty of energy driving the long, mouthwatering finish. Best from 2017 through 2032. 375 cases made.??–BS??Region: Italy / Piedmont / Barolo Select to Add