The 2004 Barolo Bussia possesses an additional dimension of inner sweetness. This expansive, refined Barolo reveals an attractive array of ripe dark fruit, sweet toasted oak, spices, tar and licorice. The tannins are broad, yet silky and the wine appears to have more than enough plumpness to provide balance. The 2004 is one of the finest recent vintages of this wine. The Barolo Bussia is aged in a combination of small barrels and larger casks. Anticipated maturity: 2012-2024. I was very impressed with the wines I tasted from Prunotto this year. A Leonardo Lo Cascio Selection, Winebow, Montvale, NJ; tel. (201) 445-0620

Lots of dried dark fruits, along with flowers, follow through to a full body, with velvety, soft-textured tannins and a long, long finish. Polished and attractive. Best after 2011. 1,000 cases made, 200 cases imported.??–JS??Region: Italy / Piedmont / Barolo Select to Add

This vintage of Prunotto’s celebrated Bussia cru is also on the mature side (but not as much as the hotter 2005 vintage) and offers ripe aromas of blackberry preserves and strawberry. Dark chocolate, spice and dried prunes fill the mouth with bold flavors and intensity. The wine is ready to drink now or in the next two or three years.——M.L.(4/1/2009)—— 90