Like the 2003, Einaudi’s 2004 Barolo is another superb effort at this level. It offers gorgeous aromatics and well articulated fruit on a medium-bodied frame of notable elegance. This bottling is made from the less well-exposed parcels of the Via Nuova vineyard and was the only Barolo that was in bottle at the time of my November visit. The wine spent 16 months in barrique (40-50% new) followed by 15 months in 25 hectoliter casks. Anticipated maturity: 2009-2019. Consulting oenologist Beppe Caviola has been instrumental in ratcheting up the quality at this historic property. I can’t think of too many estates that have made such significant strides in just the last few years. Importer: Empson, USA, Alexandria, VA; tel. (703) 684-0900

Blackberry and milk chocolate aromas. Full-bodied, with velvety tannins and a balance of plum and red fruits in the aftertaste. Best after 2012. 1,195 cases made, 650 cases imported.??–JS??Region: Italy / Piedmont / Barolo Select to Add