The 2006 Barolo Riserva Vigna Elena is huge, dark and totally sensual. Black cherries, menthol, tar and spices flow gracefully from this dark, powerful Barolo. Today the Vigna Elena is virile, intense and at times a bit on the austere side. Over time the aromas and flavors emerge from a wall of massive tannins. The huge, implosive finish suggests the wine has a very bright future. Today the 2006 is very, very young, but there is little doubt it has all the qualities to grow into a splendid wine. This is another impressive showing from Cogno. Anticipated maturity: 2016-2026. Proprietors Valter Fissore and Nadia Cogno are at the top of their game. I tasted a number of Baroli from cask, all of which point to a number of stunning wines in the pipeline. As outstanding as the Baroli are, the truth is that all of the wines in the estate’s lineup are fabulous from top to bottom. Cogno is one of Piemonte’s up and coming stars. Importer: Vias Imports, New York, NY; tel. (212) 629-0200