VIETTI Barolo ‘Brunate’ 2005

The 2005 ‘Brunate’ is grapes are selected from the historical cru Brunate, located in La Morra. Brunate in La Morra is one of the most famous “crus” of all Barolo area. It is showing extremely well now, but it has the potential to be truly great. The tannins are just beginning to lay down and still more formidable and intrusive than in its sibling, the 2005 Lazzarito. Still, with plenty of air, a big nose of black cherry and charred wood yield to flavors of plum and tar. The finish is long but the tightly wound tannins still keep it a bit restrained. After letting it breath over night, the finish revealed nuances of smoke, leather, and a hint of brown sugar. This suggests to me that this wine's better days lay ahead and the score should likely merit another point or two in years to come, possibly eclipsing the more accessible Lazzarito. (Best 2015-2030) - January, 2014 (VM)