The purity of fruit to this is truly outstanding, with dried strawberries, spices and flowers, including roses. Full body with ultra-fine tannins and a beautiful fruit-tannin balance. Super-elegant. This is a joy to taste now but will reward those who are patient. Wait until 2016 and see.

The 2009 Barolo Le Rocche del Falletto comes from a south-facing parcel with steep slopes for well-draining soils. The vines are approximately 35 years old. There-s a touch of extra ripeness here, even a hint of strawberry, backed by rich berry fruit, cassis and blackberry. The wine shows its most elegant side in the mouth, where the firming, polished tannins give the wine backbone and grace. It-s deliciously silky and extra fine with microscopic precision. Anticipated maturity: 2016-2036. - Monica Larner

Round and supple, with firm tannins underneath, this red evokes cherry, wild strawberry, tobacco, leather and underbrush flavors. Harmonious in a taut, dense way, offering a long, savory finish. Becomes racier with air, showing fine energy and drive. Best from 2017 through 2032. – BS