2000 Barolo La Serra

The 2000 Barolo La Serra has aged gracefully. Crushed flowers, tobacco, cedar, licorice and leather are some of the notes that emerge from this pretty Barolo. Layers of sweet, perfumed fruit linger on the beguiling finish. The firm La Serra tannins are always present, yet this remains a highly attractive wine that should continue to drink well for a number of years. Anticipated maturity: 2011-2018. Marcarini is one of the most solid, reliable Barolo producers. These may not be the flashiest or most exciting wines readers will come across, but they rarely fail to deliver the goods. Even better, the Marcarini Baroli remain some of the most fairly priced wines in the market. The estate’s 2000s have developed as well as could be expected. Importer: Empson, USA, Alexandria, VA; tel. (703) 684-0900

The 2000 Barolo La Serra, with a rose petal and cinnamon nose, already seems a bit too far along in its evolution, and the palate, though somewhat intense, suffers from some dryness and a rather compact finish. Drink: 2005-2010. Importer: Empson, USA, Alexandria, VA; tel. (703) 684-0900

Good medium red. Aromas of mocha, licorice, tar, minerals and brown spices. On the lean side and a bit tight today, but with very good flavor intensity. Not currently displaying the fleshy side of the vintage. Finishes with slightly tough tannins. Marchetti prefers the 1998 La Serra, as do I.