2001 Barolo Cannubi San Lorenzo-Ravera

The 2001 Barolo Cannubi/S.Lorenzo-Ravera is striking. Sweet red cherries, flowers, mint and spices are some of the many nuances that emerge from this fresh, vibrant Barolo. The Cannubi/S.Lorenzo-Ravera is often overlooked, but that would be a mistake here. The 2001 has put on serious weight over the last few years. It is a sensual, powerful Barolo that can be enjoyed now or cellared for another decade-plus. Anticipated maturity: 2012-2021. It has been a few years since I tasted Beppe Rinaldi’s 2001s. Both wines confirmed their place among the most successful wines of the vintage. As I have written many times, Rinaldi is the producer who adheres most closely to all of the tenets of the traditional school in Barolo. Importer: Vinifera Imports, Ronkonkoma, NY; tel. (631) 467-5907

The 2001 Barolo Cannubi S. Lorenzo/Ravera is the more delicate of the two Barolo selections. It features a sweet, perfumed nose followed by soft red fruit, menthol and mineral flavors on a medium-bodied frame, with excellent length and fine overall balance. Its tannins are slightly more rustic than those of the Brunate/Le Coste, but this is a highly appealing wine that will be ready to drink earlier.

The 2001 Barolo Cannubi (San Lorenzo) / Ravera is the more delicate of the two Barolo selections here. It features a sweet, perfumed nose followed by soft red fruit, menthol and mineral flavors on a medium-bodied frame, with excellent length and fine overall balance. Its tannins are slightly more rustic than those of the Brunate/Le Coste, but this is a highly appealing wine that will be ready to drink earlier. Anticipated maturity: 2011-2021. Importer: Vinifera Imports, Ronkonkoma, NY; tel. (631) 467-5907