The 2005 Barolo Cannubbio is surprisingly supple for this producer. Dark red fruit, flowers and spices come together in this round, caressing Barolo. The wine lacks some of the verve and delineation of the finest vintages, yet the sheer purity and richness of the fruit compensates. Against my better judgment (and experience with this producer’s wines) I am inclined to think this will be a relatively early-drinking Barolo within the context of Rinaldi. The balance here is lovely. Anticipated maturity: 2015-2030. I continue to be very impressed with the wines that are emerging from this historic winery. The Barolos in particular show far more harmony and elegance than was once the case. Importers: Polaner Selections, Mt. Kisco, NY; tel. (914) 244-0404; Vinity Wine Company, Emeryville, CA; tel. (510) 601-6010; Triage Wines Inc., Seattle, WA; tel. (503) 236-6262; World Wide Cellars, Minneapolis, MN; tel. (612) 378-0025; Classic Wine Company, Birmingham, AL; tel. (205) 871-9463

Sweet strawberry and floral aromas follow through to a medium-to-full body, with ripe fruit, silky tannins and a medium finish. A little hollow, but pretty and traditional. Best after 2011. 700 cases made.??–JS??Region: Italy / Piedmont / Barolo Select to Add

Slightly closed, but classic: should develop beautifully.

An historic estate with an enviable winemaking past, Francesco Rinaldi is one of those wineries that sets the bar for everyone else. Its Cannubbio cru expression of Barolo shows deeply characteristic notes of wild berries, licorice and cola. The wine follows through to the palate with clarity, density and brightness. Drink after 2015.——M.L.(2/1/2010)—— 90