This is the classic Barolo from Fratelli Alessandria, made with a blend of fruit from various sites in Verduno. (From the 2017 vintage forward, the new name "del Comune di Verduno" will reflect its origins.) The 2016 Barolo opens to tight elegance and a nervous quality that pits red fruit energy over lean fruit weight. The results are graceful, lithe, fragile and lasting. The wine's aromas unfolded slowly and seductively, revealing wild berry, cassis, bitter cherry, toasted almond and blue flower. This is a dreamy wine that promises more beauty as it continues its bottle evolution. An ample 20,000 bottles were produced. This is one of the very best values found anywhere in Barolo.

Intercommunal blend with grapes coming from Gramolere, Pisapola, Riva Ricche, Campasso, Rocche dell’Olmo and Reinane. Total skin maceration of 25 days. Aged for 32 months in large oak casks. Cask sample. Lustrous mid ruby. Fine but really subdued. Very pure cherry fruit and racy acidity. Fine, tannic bite on the finish. Captivating. (WS)