2010 - Barolo Castiglione, Vietti

The 2010 Barolo Castiglione is absolutely lovely upon first impact. It starts off dense, with notes of tar, dried cherry, and plum then adds layers of bright florals and spicy notes. Mineral shadings and smoked meat also appear as distant highlights. The 2010 vintage in particular coats the palate with a firm but subtle grip. The wine already shows great complexity. Drink: 2016-2026. Importer: Dalla Terra Winery Direct, www.dallaterra.com

The 2010 Barolo Castiglione is beautiful in the way it brings together the vibrancy of the year with a soft, inviting textural presence. Freshly cut flowers, mint, sweet spices, anise and red berries are all woven together nicely in the glass. With time in the glass, the wine blossoms with exquisite finesse, floral aromatics and exquisite overall balance. Ripe, silky tannins support the exquisite finish. An insanely beautiful wine, the 2010 will give readers a good idea of just how great the 2010 vintage is at Vietti. The Barolo Castiglione is made from a large number of parcels across the Barolo zone, many of which are of a high enough level of quality that they could be bottled separately. This is first-class juice.

Castiglione Falletto. Just mid ruby. Classic nose of iron and cherry. Elegant mid-bodied feel and focused fruit, that still is a little slow to come out. Richly tannic. Slow to open up, but very long on the finish. Perfect acidity. (WS)