The medium-bodied 2001 Conteisa is the more accessible of Gaja’s wines from the Barolo zone. It shows plenty of La Morra’s famed elegance and finesse, with a delicate nose of flowers and spices followed by rich flavors of sweet red fruit, dried flowers, roasted coffee beans, new oak and a long, caressing finish. Anticipated maturity: 2009-2021. Importer: Paterno Imports, Lake Bluff, IL; tel. (847) 604-8900

Plum, berry and dried flowers follow through to a full-bodied palate, with fine tannins and a long, caressing finish. Lovely. This is subtle and refined with wonderful balance. Best after 2007. 1,350 cases made, 250 cases imported.??–JS??Region: Italy / Piedmont / Langhe Select to Add

Elegantly perfumed, with touches of cinnamon, ground pepper, and dusty earth accenting notes of black cherries and chocolate. On the palate, there’s powerful plum and black cherry flavors, but also a strong minerality that adds an extra dimension to this compelling wine. Soft enough to begin drinking around 2010, it should keep for a couple of decades after that.——W.E.(7/1/2005)—— 94