Sandrone’s 2008 Barolo Le Vigne is a wine of breathtaking textural finesse and elegance. Nothing really stands out, so phenomenal is the wine’s balance and sense of harmony. This is the kind of wine that is easy to overlook because it doesn’t ask for attention and isn’t showy. Instead, everything is simply in the right place. The finest, most silky of tannins support a core of sweet red berries, flowers, mint and spices, all of which are woven together with total refinement. The eternal, nuanced finish bodes very well for the future. This is a dazzling effort from Luciano and Luca Sandrone. Le Vigne is made from parcels in Vignane, Ceretta, Conterni and Merli. In 2008 there is a little less Vignane as part of the vineyard was hit by hail. There is little question that the blending of fruit from several sites was a huge advantage in 2008. Anticipated maturity: 2016-2028. Luciano Sandrone describes 2008 as a very classic vintage. It was a year with very slow and gradual ripening. The Nebbiolo harvest started in early October and lasted the entire month. The biggest news at Sandrone is the addition of parcels in Baudana (Serralunga) and Villero (Castiglione) which will appear in Le Vigne beginning with the 2011 vintage. As for the 2008s, they are majestic. Importer: Vintus LLC, Pleasantville, NJ; tel. (914) 769-3000

A rich, muscular structure cradles the cherry and strawberry fruit in this intense red. Tar and spice flavors add complexity as this turns tannic and impenetrable on the finish, with an undercurrent of racy acidity. Best from 2017 through 2038. 150 cases imported.??–BS??Region: Italy / Piedmont / Barolo Select to Add