Grasso's 2007s Baroli saw 30 days of contact on the skins followed by a full 30 months in large, neutral oak casks. The 2007 Barolo Gavarini Vigna Chiniera opens with an exotic bouquet of candied red fruit, flowers, mint and minerals. This is an unsually opulent, racy style for Grasso. The Gavarini is a touch hot and alcoholic at first, but with several hours of air, that quality seemed to resolve itself nicely. Silky, beautifully integrated tannins frame a finish of exceptional elegance. The personality of the year marks the Gavarini to a significant degree.

This is round and juicy with lovely cedar and ripe fruits with hints of dried fruits. Gorgeous dried fruit finish.

The 2007 Barolo Gavarini Vigna Chiniera opens with an exotic bouquet of candied red fruit, flowers, mint and minerals. This is an unusually opulent, racy style for Grasso. The Gavarini is a touch hot and alcoholic at first, but with several hours of air, that quality seemed to resolve itself nicely. Silky, beautifully integrated tannins frame a finish of exceptional elegance. The personality of the year marks the Gavarini to a significant degree. Anticipated maturity: 2015-2027. AG

Good medium red. Downright Burgundian nose offers redcurrant, strawberry, menthol, crushed stone and flowers; vibrant yet reticent. Sweet, broad and fine-grained, with a light touch to the slightly imploded flavors of plum, mocha, earth and spices. Finishes impressively broad, with a juicy quality and ripe dusty tannins. Give this four or five years in the cellar.

This is elegant, offering floral, raspberry, cherry and mineral aromas and flavors. Light-weight and intense, with fine harmony and a lingering finish. BS