The 2005 Barolo Villero shows terrific richness and density in its dark fruit, menthol, spices and French oak. There is lovely richness to the fruit that will come together even more fully over the next few years. The finish is long, sweet and harmonious. This is a wonderful effort from Boroli and is the firmest of these 2005 Barolos. Patience will be handsomely rewarded. Anticipated maturity: 2015-2025. This year I was deeply impressed with the wines I tasted from Boroli. Achille Boroli, whose family came to winemaking after successful endeavors in the textile and publishing businesses, runs this young property that already counts parcels in some of Piedmont’s finest vineyards among its holdings. Today the wines show more elegance and clarity than in the past, as the estate has found better balance in its vineyards, increased maceration times and introduced large, neutral oak casks, all of which are allowing the vineyard characteristics to speak with great eloquence. Boroli is clearly on the rise, and from here the only direction to go is up. Importer: Dalla Terra, Napa, CA; tel. (707) 259-5405

Terrific aromas of ripe strawberry and plum follow through to a full body, with a solid core of chewy tannins and an excellent finish. Best after 2012. 500 cases made, 235 cases imported.??–JS??Region: Italy / Piedmont / Barolo Select to Add

Super-mature Nebbiolo flavours; needs time to come into balance.

Barolo Villero is one of those “Wow!” wines that seduces you off the bat thanks to the intensity and purity of its aromas. The wine is decadently redolent of chocolate fudge, toasted coffee bean and creamy vanilla. The fruit nuances come off as cherry and blueberry. It’s round, supple and gorgeous in the mouth. Drink in 10-plus years.——M.L.(4/1/2009)—— 93