2009 Barolo Ciabot Mentin Ginestra

Medium red. Less roasted than the Briccotto, offering aromas and flavors of cherry, mocha, coffee and spices. Less fat and full in the mouth but shows more lift and energy. A bit youthfully clenched, but the wine's firm tannic spine and impressive length suggest it will be a beauty with a few years of aging. Despite being situated at high altitude, these are the first Barolo vines Clerico picks. The acidity here is a very healthy 6.3 grams per liter.

24 months in oak, 75% new. Deepish ruby. Both floral and earthy. Dense, compact, very firm grip. Hugely promising but not currently flattering. Very slight sourness on the finish adding another layer. Masses of flavour and rich in fruit. (JH)

Commune of Monforte d’Alba. Concentrated ruby with orange tinges. Balsamic fruitcake and cardamom skin. Fine cherry fruit with a layer of coating tannins. Intense, long and with a hint of vanilla. Quite spectacular and modernist but executed with huge skill. (WS)