The 2004 Barolo Bricat is made from the oldest vines in the Gramolere vineyard. Today it comes across as fresher and more closed than the Barolo Gramolere. That notwithstanding, it possesses superb delineation in its aromatics and plenty of backward dark fruit. The Bricat will require a few years of additional bottle age before it reveals its fullest potential. It too is an outstanding effort from this estate. Manzone has decided to simplify the naming of his wines so beginning with the 2004 the wine is simply called Barolo Bricat, as opposed to previous vintages in which the wine was labeled Barolo Bricat Le Gramolere.

(from vines at the top of the hill; this bottling was previously called Bricat Le Gramolere) Good full red. Sexy, sweet aromas of redcurrant, strawberry, dried rose and nutty oak. Lovely acidity gives energy and vinosity to the flavors of strawberry, tobacco, marzipan and flowers. Perhaps best today on the firm, highly aromatic finish, which offers terrific cut and sappiness. A wonderfully vibrant wine that's more pristine than past vintages here. The best yet for this cuvee (Incidentally, there will also be a Gramolere Riserva from this vintage, but it won't be released until 2010.)