Sandrone's 2008 Barolo Le Vigne is a wine of breathtaking textural finesse and elegance. Nothing really stands out so phenomenal is the wine's balance and sense of harmony. This is the kind of wine that is easy to overlook because it doesn't ask for attention and isn't showy. Instead everything is simply in the right place. The finest most silky of tannins support a core of sweet red berries flowers mint and spices all of which are woven together with total refinement. The eternal nuanced finish bodes very well for the future. This is a dazzling effort from Luciano and Luca Sandrone. Le Vigne is made from parcels in Vignane Ceretta Conterni and Merli. In 2008 there is a little less Vignane as part of the vineyard was hit by hail. There is little question that the blending of fruit from several sites was a huge advantage in 2008. Anticipated maturity: 2016-2028.-Antonio Galloni

A blend of four estate vineyards-Ceretta Conterni (both Monforte d'Alba) Merli (Novello) and Vignane (Barolo)-this is an astonishing 2008. It has the kind of tannic precision and detail that parallels the cool earth on a freshly dug truffle. The wine is youthfully compressed all the way through a bright savory sphere of flavor that forms a complex Barolo. All it requires is age.

A rich, muscular structure cradles the cherry and strawberry fruit in this intense red. Tar and spice flavors add complexity as this turns tannic and impenetrable on the finish, with an undercurrent of racy acidity. Best from 2017 through 2038. – BS