2001 La Spinetta Barbaresco Valeirano

The 2001 Barbaresco Valeirano is convincing in its overall balance. Massively rich, it offers penetrating aromas of truffles, minerals, vanilla, tar and mint. On the palate it is dense and chewy with generous amounts of dark, backward fruit and a long, fresh finish punctuated by exuberant, youthful tannins. It is the most austere of the three La Spinetta Barbarescos. Anticipated maturity: 2007-2013. 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; Estate Wines, Ltd., San Rafael, CA; tel. (415) 492-9411; and Bianco~Rosso Imports, Ltd., Seattle, WA; tel. (206) 781-0702

(from Treiso; this rocky vineyard is more than a hundred meters higher than Rivetti's Gallina or Starderi vines; 14.8% alcohol) Moderately saturated medium red. Highly perfumed aromas of rose petal and marzipan ("like Serralunga Barolo in its perfume," notes Rivetti). Then powerful, vibrant and deep, with an almost Barolo-like density and plushness. Thanks to acidity a half-gram higher than that of the other 2001 Barbarescos the wine maintains superb vinosity and perfume in the mouth, and carries its high alcohol gracefully. Finishes with building, noble tannins and terrific persistence.

The 2001 Barbaresco Valeirano is convincing in its overall balance. Massively rich, it offers penetrating aromas of truffles, minerals, vanilla, tar and mint. On the palate it is dense and chewy with generous amounts of dark, backward fruit and a long, fresh finish punctuated by exuberant, youthful tannins. It is the most austere of the three La Spinetta Barbarescos. Anticipated maturity: 2007-2013. Antonio Galloni, Wine Advocate # 167 Oct 2006