2008 Barolo Cerretta Vigna Bricco

The 2008 Barolo Vigna Bricco Cerretta shows the muscle of Serralunga within the context of the year. Dark red fruit, flowers, licorice and tar are some of the notes that emerge from this refined Barolo. There is plenty of density in the glass. The 2008 is rich, deep and virile all the way through to the finish. There is plenty of Serralunga character here. Anticipated maturity: 2018-2033. This is a stellar set of wines from Elio Altare. The 2008 Nebbioli were brought in between October 7 and 10, which is a bit late for this estate. The 2008s have a Pinot-like sweetness that is incredibly appealing. Experiments with a fully destemmed Barolo continue. It will be interesting to see how those wines develop over the coming years, but so far the results are intriguing, to say the least. The biggest piece of news, however, is a new lease on a parcel of Cannubi, of which there are now five barrels resting in the cellar with vintage 2011. The new addition will console Altare fans over the loss of the Barolo Brunate, which will no longer be made, as Altare lost access to that fruit after the 2011 harvest. Various American importers, including Michael Skurnik, Syosset, NY; tel. (516) 677-9300; Estate Wines Ltd., San Rafael, CA; tel.(415) 492-9411; Robert Houde Wines, Elk Grove Village, IL; tel. (847) 430-3887

The 2008 Barolo Vigna Bricco Cerretta shows the muscle of Serralunga within the context of the year. Dark red fruit, flowers, licorice and tar are some of the notes that emerge from this refined Barolo. There is plenty of density in the glass. The 2008 is rich, deep and virile all the way through to the finish. There is plenty of Serralunga character here. Anticipated maturity: 2018-2033. Apr 2012, www.robertparker.com