Grimaldi’s 2003 Barolo Le Coste is made in a very sweet, accessible style. It reveals open, high-toned aromatics and a core of ripe fruit with excellent length and an attractive fleshiness even if it could use more persistence. It is an excellent choice for near-term drinking. Anticipated maturity: 2008-2015. Ferruccio Grimaldi works out of a small, cramped cellar in Barolo. This estate is somewhat of an anomaly in that the entry-level Dolcetto, Barbera and Nebbiolo d’Alba Valmaggiore bottlings often show more personality than the Barolos, which I often find excessively sweet. A Marc de Grazia Selection, various American importers, including Michael Skurnik, Syosset, NY; tel. (516) 677-9300, Vin Divino, Chicago, IL; tel. (773) 334-6700, and Estate Wines, Ltd., San Rafael, CA; tel. (415) 492-9411

This is very, very fruity, with loads of plum and berries. Full-bodied, with lots of fruit and round tannins. Very soft and rich. Almost New World in style. Voluptuous. Best after 2010. 380 cases made, 250 cases imported.??–JS??Region: Italy / Piedmont / Barolo Select to Add