The 2005 Barolo is a gorgeous, plump wine with tons of dark fruit, sweet spices and flowers. Medium in body, the wine reveals lovely depth in an easygoing style. The tannins remain a bit firm but there is more than enough fruit to provide balance. Another year or so in bottle should help smooth the slight rough edges that are present today. The estate’s Barolo is made from four vineyards in the Terlo zone above Barolo, where the vineyards average 25 years of age. The wine spent 12 months in French oak barriques (60% new) followed by 18 months in 25 hectoliter Vicard French oak barrels. This is a lovely effort from Einaudi. Anticipated maturity: 2010-2020. This is another very strong set of wines from Einaudi and dashing proprietor Matteo Sardagna. Moderate yields, longer periods of skin contact, an increasing reliance on cask and lower amounts of new French oak are just some of the changes that have taken place as this historic property once again takes its place among the Piedmont’s top estates. In 2005 the Barolos spent a total of 3-4 weeks on the skins and were aged in a combination of small barrels and medium-sized casks. These dense, fruit-driven Barolos were among the most vibrant wines I encountered. Importer: Empson, USA, Alexandria, VA; tel. (703) 684-0900