A burst of floral and spice-infused aromatics soars out of the glass in the 2014 Barolo Riserva Vigna Elena. A Barolo of exquisite finesse and elegance, the 2014 also has quite a bit of power lurking in the background. Time in the glass brings out the wine's textural resonance. As always, the intense aromatic signatures of the Rose clone give the Vigna Elena its distinctive personality and textural feel. A rush of sweet red cherry, blood orange, pomegranate, mint and white pepper explodes into the exquisitely layered finish. What a wine!

The Elvio Cogno portfolio concludes with the special 2014 Barolo Riserva Ravera Vigna Elena. This wine from the cooler 2014 vintage stands far apart from the other new releases from the 2015 and 2016 vintages also hitting the market at this time. Ephemeral, fragile and delicate, the wine shows a softer caliber of fruit, with wild berry, cassis, smoke, tar and powdered licorice. There are earthy notes at the back with truffle essence and forest floor. This vintage offers a heightened level of complexity and nuance. This wine is a pure expression of the Rosé clone of Nebbiolo that is known for its lighter color and delicate aromas. A mere 3,000 bottles exist.