The medium-bodied 2004 Barolo reveals beautiful color and expressive aromatics, with notable detail in its fruit and a pretty note of sweetness that lingers on the finish. This medium-bodied, entry-level Barolo should be a good relative value as well. Cascina Bongiovanni’s Barolo is made from the less well-exposed portions of Pernanno in Castiglione Falletto and Ceretta in Serralunga. It is aged in French oak barrels, of which 20% are new. Anticipated maturity: 2009-2018. Proprietor Davide Mozzone is a passionate, energetic man endowed with a charismatic sense of humor. His enthusiasm is reflected in the wines themselves, which seem to improve with every passing vintage. Importer: Empson, USA, Alexandria, VA; tel. (703) 684-0900

Fine, scented, ripe rasberry rose aroma. Elegant, well-balanced, perfumed. Delicious nose. Rather atypical Serralunga. Dry.