2003 Barolo Vecchie Vigne

The 2003 Barolo Vecchie Vigne, from old vines in Giachini, shows the effect of too much French oak in this vintage. It is also the only wine of the four 2003s I tasted where the alcohol is prominent. There is plenty of intensity in the flavors, but less in the way of textural finesse. The aromatics are a bit forward, which suggest full maturity is not too far off.