The 2005 Barolo Prapo is a dark, sensual wine shrouded in a veil of gorgeous fruit. Sweet balsamic notes emerge as the wine sits in the glass, followed by masses of rich dark fruit. The tannins build on the finish in a classic expression of Serralunga yet the wine has more than enough sweetness and density to provide a beautiful foil to the wine’s structural components. Rising notes of spices, iron, licorice, menthol and flowers on the close make it impossible to resist a second taste. This is an incredibly well-balanced, powerful Barolo from Ceretto. Anticipated maturity: 2012-2025. (Not yet released) These new releases from Ceretto are the finest wines I have tasted from this estate in many a year. The oak seems to have been dialed back, and the wines show more purity of fruit while staying faithful to the house style. Simply put, this is an impressive set of wines from a historic property that has been an underachiever in recent years. I can only hope that these 2005 Barolos signal a return to the level of quality that brought Ceretto the recognition the estate enjoys today. As we went to press I was informed that as of May 1 Ceretto’s new US importer is Wilson-Daniels. Importer: Wilson Daniels Ltd, St. Helena, CA; tel. (707) 963-9661 (Effective May 1st, 2009)

Berries and dried porcini on the nose. Full-bodied, with sweet berries, silky tannins and a long, caressing finish. Very pretty. Turns chewy on the finish. Best after 2012. 800 cases made, 200 cases imported.??–JS??Region: Italy / Piedmont / Barolo Select to Add

From iron-rich soils, this expression of Barolo offers elegant mineral tones and slate backed by plump aromas of blackberry, currant, cola, leather, spice and smoked cedar wood. There’s also an attractive floral note at the back. The wine offers notably fine textured tannins, with a smooth and polished feel. ——M.L.(12/1/2010)—— 93