The 2008 Barolo Vigna Marenca boasts a center of bright red berries that is surprisingly supple and elegant. Sweet red cherries, freshly cut flowers, spices and mint take shape in the glass as the 2008 shows off a refined, high-toned register that is rarely found in this wine. The 2008 boasts striking inner perfume and a long, chalky yet seamless finish that is the essence of harmony. A hint of dried roses and sweet cherries linger in the empty glass. This is another dazzling showing. The Marenca was aged in a combination of cask and tonneaux. Anticipated maturity: 2018-2028. This is an impressive set of wines from Giampaolo Pira. The wines aren’t as massive as they sometimes are, but that is just fine. I also noted that the use of oak was much more polished than in some recent vintages 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

Dark and brooding, with ample sweet cherry, raspberry, licorice and tar flavors. A blanket of burly tannins emerges as mineral, tobacco and tea accents grace the long finish. Best from 2016 through 2035. 833 cases made.??–BS??Region: Italy / Piedmont / Barolo Select to Add