The quintessential traditionalist, Bartolo Mascarello's 1998 Barolo reveals a deceivingly unimpressive plum/garnet/ruby color. However, the aromatics explode from the glass offering scents of Chinese black tea, licorice, black cherries, tar, and truffles. In the mouth, it is sweet, fleshy, powerful, and heady with exquisite purity as well as symmetry. This wine's aromas and flavors will convince readers that Nebbiolo is the Pinot Noir of Italy. It will undoubtedly tighten after bottling, re-emerge in 4-5 years, and age well for nearly two decades. Importers: Vias Imports, New York, NY; tel. (212) 629-0200 and Riservati, Seattle, WA; tel. (206) 623-5758