Act One: 2008 Barolo Then & Now



~ Ripening Nebbiolo on the Vine in Piemonte ~
(image courtesy of Poderi Aldo Conterno)



 

It's been about a year and a half since I published my large report on 2008 Barolo, so I thought it would be interesting to check in on these Nebbiolo and see how they are progressing.   This is the first in a series of articles I'll be penning over the next few weeks to do just that.  

 

Many of these young Barolo were very  unhappy at being uncorked shortly upon release;  despite some excessive decanting in some instances.  I know many of you purchased some of these wines in this excellent Barolo vintage, so hopefully these data points will be useful. 

 

Barolo Then.......  

 

From vineyards in Castiglione Falleto, this is a blockbuster of a Barolo. Readers who desire the more traditional approach to Nebbiolo will likely not be enchanted by this wine, but if you appreciate all styles, this one is hard to resist. Deep garnet to purple in the glass, the aromas are intense with red fruits, flowers, mint and herbs. On the palate, this rich wine is full bodied, opulent and finely textured with cherry, mint, leather and herbs. The tannins are balanced so well with the massive core of fruit that this is approachable today. Paired perfectly with Bistecca Fiorentina. 92 points

Barolo Now.......

Parusso is located on the border of Castiglione Falleto and Monforte d'Alba. For over 20 years, the brother and sister team of Marco and Tiziana Parusso have been crafting elegant, rich Barolo. In 1986, the siblings took control of the winery from their father Armando and in 2000, realized their dream of completing a new barrel aging cellar.

 

The 2008 single vineyard Barolo "Mariondino" is a special wine.  Deep violet with purple reflections in the glass entice the taster to smell.  The aromas are focused and generous with fresh flowers, eucalyptus and crushed cherries.  On the palate, the wine is ripe and full bodied.  Again, I'll caution readers that this isn't in the style of Mascarello or G. Conterno - it leans toward the modern interpretation of Nebbiolo but it's oh so hard to resist.  Crushed cherry fruit dominates the palate and is joined by turned earth, cured meats and fresh fennel.  This has deviated little in 18 months and is still delicious.  93 points.  About $45. 

 

~ The single vineyard Barolo Mariondino from Parusso ~

 

E vero!