Notes of dried herbs, soy, underbrush, tobacco, and red cherries characterize the narrowly constructed, lean, austere 1998 Barolo Brunate. Anticipated maturity: 2002-2016. Importer: Veuve Clicquot, New York, NY; tel. (212) 888-7575

Some garnet to the ruby color now. Coffee and earthy aromas, with very ripe fruit. Almost raisiny. Full-bodied and very soft, with a big and juicy palate. Round tannins and a meaty, berry aftertaste. This needs to be served with game. Rounder and richer than I remember.--1998 Piedmont blind retrospective (2008). Drink now. 2,500 cases made, 600 cases imported.??–JS??Region: Italy / Piedmont / Barolo Select to Add

The 14-acre Brunate vineyard produces a more delicate style of Barolo. Aromas of ripe figs and flavors of superripe fruit give a sense of a sweet wine, but with huge tannins masking the sweetness. To finish, the acidity gives the wine shape and good potential—allow 10 years or more before drinking. ——R.V.(11/15/2002)—— 91