2003 Barolo Giachini

The 2003 Barolo Vigna Giachini is easily the most successful of the 2003 Barolos. It presents excellent delineation in its aromatics as well as notable richness and depth in its dark cherries, chocolate, cocoa and licorice. Although it is already expressive and ample on the palate, another few years of bottle age should allow the wine to come together a little more.

The 2003 Barolo Vigna Giachini is easily the most successful of the 2003 Barolos. It presents excellent delineation in its aromatics as well as notable richness and depth in its dark cherries, chocolate, cocoa and licorice. Although it is already expressive and ample on the palate, another few years of bottle age should allow the wine to come together a little more. Anticipated maturity: 2009- 2018. The 2003s are the first finished Barolos I have tasted since brothers Renato and Giuliano divided their family’s holdings. Giuliano kept the old label and the family’s estate name that readers are already familiar with. It will be interesting to see what the Corinos are capable of doing now that they are on their own. For now it is too soon to draw any meaningful conclusions, especially when faced with a vintage that is as atypical as 2003. A Marc de Grazia Selection, various American importers, including Michael Skurnik, Syosset, NY; tel. (516) 677-9300, Vin Divino, Chicago, IL; tel. (773) 334-6700, and Estate Wines, Ltd., San Rafael, CA; tel. (415) 492-9411

Almost pure compost/leaf mulch on the nose. Thoroughly agricultural in terms of perfume but very luscious and rich on the palate. Very pronounced tannins on the finish. Some hint of florality – Barolo’s famous roses? – on the nose. Long. (JR)