The 2001 Barolo Bussia Dardi/Le Rose is a big, authoritative wine. Menthol, spices, plums, licorice and tar are woven into a fabric of notable class. The 2001 is both rich and weightless, in the way only Nebbiolo can be. There is a wonderful centeredness and focus to the fruit that carries thorugh to the finish. With air the 2001 is enjoyable today but it can also be cellared for another decade or so, give or take. The virile, muscular finish adds quite a bit of personality. Anticipated maturity: 2012-2021. Importer: Montcalm Wine Importers, Bertin Henri Selections, Doral, FL; tel: (305) 392-6995

Smells a bit earthy and rustic, with scents of leather and iron ore, but the fruit emerges on the palate, slowly unfolding to reveal layers of plums and black cherries. This is a wine whose true potential is seen most clearly on the finish at this early stage of its evolution, where it gains in fruit intensity and complexity, boding well for the future. Try in 10 years. Imported by Empson (USA) Ltd.——J.C.(3/1/2006)—— 91