Grimaldi’s 2001 Barolo Sotto Castello di Novello shows notes of spices, vanilla, menthol and toasted oak on the nose along with very ripe fruit, in a richer, rounder and softer style than Le Coste, with suggestions of menthol and tar on the finish. The Sotto Castello doesn’t quite have the expressiveness or depth of the Le Coste yet, although it shows great promise. Anticipated maturity: 2008-2015. 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

Lots of ripe fruit and toasted oak character here. Full-bodied, with loads of fruit concentration and ripe, velvety tannins. Packed to the brim with plum, berry and toasted oak flavors. Best after 2007. 170 cases made, 90 cases imported.??–JS??Region: Italy / Piedmont / Barolo Select to Add