The 2009 Barolo (aged three years in botte grande and one year in bottle) opens with a crystalline, ruby color and shows extreme focus and precision. Rosehip, forest berry, wild mint, lightly toasted pine nut, dried ginger and underbrush all appear on the ever-changing bouquet. The wine is extremely finessed and silky on the close with beautiful menthol freshness at the end. In Barolo tradition, fruit was normally sourced from many vineyards. The concept of single vineyards is relatively new. In keeping with tradition, this Barolo sees fruit from the Canubbi, San Lorenzo, Rue, and Rocche di La Morra vineyards. Anticipated maturity: 2015-2035. “The Last of the Mohicans” is a moniker that, with a playful touch of self-irony, Maria Teresa Mascarello uses to describe her winemaking philosophy. One of the most legendary cases of daughter-succeeding-father in Barolo today, this petite woman has superseded the enormity of Bartolo’s vision. Thanks to her tenacity and steadfast, she has breathed new life into the concept of “traditional” Barolo from her tiny winery at the heart of the Barolo village. If this winemaking school is experiencing a renaissance today, this is in large part thanks to her. She may be the last of the Mohicans, but she has started a new tribe. Importer: The Rare Wine Co., Sonoma, CA; tel. (707) 996-4484

An elegant version, with strawberry and cherry flavors that take on accents of tobacco and black tea. Vibrant and juicy, delivering a long, refreshing finish. Needs time for the tannins to soften. Best from 2017 through 2030. 1,350 cases made.??–BS??Region: Italy / Piedmont / Barolo Select to Add