The 2001 Barolo Vigna Marenca is quite powerful and intense, but it also remains heavily marked by French oak. There is plenty in the way of depth and concentration, but less when it comes to elegance. Anticipated maturity: 2012-2014. Giampaolo Pira’s 2001s were quite showy when they were first released. The wines haven’t aged as well as I had expected and today it is pretty clear they need to be drunk up. Ultimately these wines never integrated their French oak. A Marc de Grazia Selection, various American importers, including: de Grazia Imports; tel. (417) 732-4200; Michael Skurnik, Syosset, NY; tel. (516) 677-9300, Estate Wines Ltd., San Rafael, CA; tel. (415) 492-9411, Robert Houde Wines, Elk Grove Village, IL; tel. (847) 430-3887

Intense aromas of blackberries, lightly toasted oak and plums. Very intense. Full-bodied, with big velvety tannins and a long, caressing finish. Serious wine. Best after 2008. 1,000 cases made, 650 cases imported.??–JS??Region: Italy / Piedmont / Barolo Select to Add