The 1999 Barolo San Rocco, from a vineyard in Serralunga d’Alba, is the most complete of the trio. Ruby/garnet, it is the most expressive in its fruit, with ample plum and black cherry notes, well endowed with the classic asphalt and anisette aromas of Nebbiolo, and has absorbed its oak with greater success. Powerful and concentrated yet well balanced on the palate, its solid structure and firm texture are complemented by the velvet of the tactile sensations and the sweetness of the fruit. Anticipated maturity: 2005-2020. 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

Very attractive nose of blackberry and flowers leads to a full body, with silky, fine tannins and a long, gorgeous finish. Refined and balanced. Hard not to drink now.—'99 Piedmont blind retrospective (2009). Drink now. 780 cases made, 610 cases imported.??–JS??Region: Italy / Piedmont / Barolo Select to Add

Modern, but it still tastes like Barolo underneath its veneer of toast, coffee and coconut. Under the wood beats a heart of tar, molasses and dates nestled in soft, supple tannins and finishing with juicy acidity. ——W.E.(4/2/2004)—— 91