The 2013 Barolo Gavarini Chiniera is much showier than the Ginestra Casa Matè. An ample, resonant Barolo, the Gavarini Chiniera exudes richness from the get-go. Macerated cherry, kirsch, wild flowers and mint are some of the many notes that are laced together. Ripe, silky tannins add to the wine's considerable raciness. I am somewhat surprised by how well this gorgeous wine is showing today.

The 2013 Barolo Gavarini Chiniera stands apart in this tasting of Elio Grasso's new releases. The fruit portrayed shows a very crisp and focused quality. It absolutely pops from the glass with brilliant sharpness. Gianluca Grasso tells me lab reports confirm the higher acidic tenor of the wine, although this is not necessarily perceived acidity that you taste. Aromas of wild berry, balsam herb, licorice and smoke emerge delicately from the bouquet. The wine's mouthfeel evokes a profound sense of elegance thanks to those noble tannins and its silky texture.