2000 Barolo Gavarini Chiniera

The 2000 Barolo Gavarini Vigna Chiniera is a big wine that has yet to develop much in the way of tertiary nuance. It shows terrific persistence on the palate, with layers of super-ripe fruit and seamless personality. The 2000 isn’t the most complex Chiniera, but it will deliver plenty of pleasure over the next decade-plus. Thus far, it has aged exquisitely. Anticipated maturity: 2011-2020. Elio Grasso is among the growers who captured the essence of 2000. Grasso remains one of the most overlooked, under the radar producers in Piedmont. I buy the wines every year, but never seem to be able to keep my hands off the bottles. The estate’s 2000 are marvelous.

Bright, deep red. Pungent red berries and minerals on the vibrant nose. Dense, thick and sweet, but with brisk acids giving lift to the red berry and mineral flavors. A vibrant 2000 Barolo, if not quite as floral or complex as the Casa Mate.

The 2000 Barolo Gavarini Vigna Chiniera is a big wine that has yet to develop much in the way of tertiary nuance. It shows terrific persistence on the palate, with layers of super-ripe fruit and seamless personality. The 2000 isn’t the most complex Chiniera, but it will deliver plenty of pleasure over the next decade-plus. Thus far, it has aged exquisitely. Anticipated maturity: 2011-2020. May 2011, www.robertparker.com