2006 Barolo Vigna del Gris

The 2006 Barolo Vigna del Gris is exceptional in this vintage; in fact the 2006 is one of the finest versions of this wine ever made. The bouquet alone is superb, yet on the palate the wine reveals a level of power and richness that has seldom – if ever – been achieved in this bottling. The fruit remains massive and primary while the oak is beautifully balanced. Floral notes add a final touch of finesse. Elegance and power; it's all here.

The 2006 Barolo Vigna del Gris is exceptional in this vintage; in fact the 2006 is one of the finest versions of this wine ever made. The bouquet alone is superb, yet the wine reveals a level of power and richness on the palate that has seldom – if ever – been achieved in this bottling. The fruit remains massive and primary while the oak is beautifully balanced. Floral notes add a final touch of finesse. Elegance and power; it’s all here. Anticipated maturity: 2016-2026. Guido Fantino describes 2006 as warm, especially during the summer. A spell of rain in mid-September refreshed the vines and set the stage for a Nebbiolo harvest that took place in early October, finishing on the 10th. The estate’s 2006 Barolos are massive, powerful wines, yet possess beautiful overall balance. Vinification remains very much reflective of the modern school, which is to say relatively short fermentations in rotary tanks, followed by malolactic fermentation and aging in 100% new oak. While the wood is clearly felt in these wines, in top vintages these Barolos come together beautifully in bottle, which I expect to be the case here as well. I also had a chance to taste the estate’s 2007 and 2008 Barolos from barrel. For now, let me just say that there is no shortage of great wines maturing in these cellars. Importer: Empson, USA, Alexandria, VA; tel. (703) 684-0900

Deep, bright red-ruby. Superripe aromas of black cherry, brown spices and flowers show a medicinal reserve. Silky, rich and large-scaled, with mineral and brown spice flavors giving definition to the middle palate. A very fat 2006 with lush but firm tannins and strong lingering fruit.