The 2006 Barolo Sotto Castello di Novello presents an open, gorgeous bouquet that melds into black cherries, plums, licorice, tar, menthol and sweet spices. A supple, round Barolo, the Sotto Castello di Novello reveals plenty of length on the palate and a harmonious finish. This soft, accessible Barolo seems built for near-term pleasure, and there is no shortage of that here. Anticipated maturity: 2010-2016. Ferruccio Grimaldi is another of Piedmont’s up and coming producers. Each year the wines show greater focus as Grimaldi continues to fine-tune his approach. Grimaldi’s entry-level 2006 Barolo, from a rented parcel in Via Nuova, was still in barrel, and I was unable to taste it for this article. A Marc de Grazia Selection, various American importers, including: de Grazia Imports; tel. (417) 732-4200; Michael Skurnik, Syosset, NY; (516) 677-9300, Estate Wines Ltd., San Rafael CA; (415) 492-9411, Giuliana Imports, Boulder CO; (303) 547-6343, Robert Houde Wines, Bensenville IL; (630) 422-1119

A dose of new oak softens the impact of this red, whose licorice, bitter almond, cherry and iron flavors pack power and backbone, courtesy of the stiff tannins. Well-proportioned, a bit cheesy, with enough sweetness to match the structure. Fine length. Best from 2013 through 2030. 100 cases imported.??–BS??Region: Italy / Piedmont / Barolo Select to Add