The 2008 Barolo Pernanno is terrific. It shows gorgeous depth and mid-palate pliancy in its dark red/black fruits, licorice, menthol, violets, sweet spices and subtle French oak. All of the elements flow gracefully from this sleek, harmonious Barolo. The Bongiovanni house style of forward fruit is quite present, but there is more than enough stuffing and underlying structure to balance the wine’s more exuberant qualities. This is another strong showing from Davide Mozzone. The Pernanno was aged in French oak barrels, 30% new. Anticipated maturity: 2016-2026.
Cascina Bongiovanni is one of Piemonte’s small, artisan estates that seems to fly under the radar. The wines seldom disappoint, however, and merit a wider audience. Proprietor Davide Mozzone makes Baroli built on expressive, radiant fruit that can be enjoyed young, but that also develop nicely in bottle.
Importer: Empson, USA, Alexandria, VA; tel. (703) 684-0900