Grimaldi’s 2005 Barolo Sotto Castello di Novello sparkles on the palate with gorgeous ripe dark fruit. This is an especially striking, vibrant Barolo, especially in the way the fruit carries through all the way to the long, refined finish. To be sure, the style is still on the modern side, but there is quite a bit more Nebbiolo character than in the past, and on the whole the wine displays exceptional balance in a style that is a touch more taut and focused then the Le Coste. Anticipated maturity: 2012-2020. Proprietor Ferruccio Grimaldi continues to show improvement, and these are the finest Barolos I have tasted from him thus far. The wines show more Nebbiolo expressiveness and better use of oak than has been the case in the past. 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

Lovely sweet berry and ripe raspberry aromas have a floral undertone. Full-bodied, with gorgeous fruit, supervelvety tannins and a long, long finish. Best after 2012. 450 cases made, 300 cases imported.??–JS??Region: Italy / Piedmont / Barolo Select to Add