2007 Barolo Castelletto

The estate's 2007 Barolo Castelletto is very tightly wound for the vintage. The tannins remain surprisingly firm. An attractive core of dark cherries, plums, mint and flowers struggles to emerge from beneath the wine's considerable structure. At times, though, the Castelletto is deeply expressive, especially on the insistent, focused finish. This is going to require a measure of patience, but it is unquestionably an interesting bottle. Anticipated maturity: 2015-2025. Importer: Bedford International, Larchmont, NY; tel. (914) 833-2725

The 2007 Barolo Castelletto is an elegant, perfumed wine. Polished and elegant throughout, the Castelletto reveals attractive inner perfume and lovely red fruit, all framed by silky tannins.

The 2007 Barolo Castelletto is an elegant, perfumed wine. Polished and elegant throughout, the Castelletto reveals attractive inner perfume and lovely red fruit, all framed by silky tannins. Anticipated maturity: 2017-2027. As is often the case, Manzone is one of the producers who chooses to bottle his Baroli on the late side. I tasted the 2007s from barrel and also had the opportunity to revisit the 2006s from bottle. A Marc de Grazia Selection, various American importers, including: de Grazia Imports; tel. (417) 732-4200; Michael Skurnik, Syosset, NY; tel. (516) 677-9300, Estate Wines Ltd., San Rafael CA; tel. (415) 492-9411; Robert Houde Wines, Bensenville IL; tel. (630) 422-1119