2012 Barolo Monvigliero

The 2012 Barolo Monvigliero is beautifully layered, silky and expressive in the glass. Like many 2012s, the Monvigliero gives the impression it will drink well relatively early, as the aromatics are a touch forward. The classic Monvigliero texture comes through nicely, while beams of tannin extend the finish. Here, too, the wine is a touch compact. The Alessandria wines have traditionally aged very well. It will be interesting to see how the 2012 Monvigliero fares.

Verduno. Just mid ruby with a broad, orange-tinged rim. Perfumed and almost heady cherry nose with a spicy edge. Soft cherry fruit on the palate with a hint of fresh mint and firm, stalky tannins which integrate on the finish. Could be approached now – with food, that is. (WS)

Cask sample 1: Aged in 30-hl oval Pauscha casks. Pale ruby with watery rim. Very fine and brooding and not yet open. Flattering touch of oak. Backward on the palate too and with a fine, concentrated fruit expression that fits the grainy, tannic charge. Lovely acidity. Long. Cask sample 2: Aged in 20-hl oval Pauscha casks. Pale ruby. Truly enticing nose that is a little more spicy and with a hint of dried cherry. Fine, succulent fruit on the palate and with an almost salty finish. The tannins are really prominent on the finish, but there is plenty of fruit to back it up. Very promising. Cask 1 has wonderful depth, cask 2 has great length and structure. (WS)