A dark, exotic Barolo, the 2011 Brunate boasts tons of density and volume. Black cherry, plum, spice, licorice, new leather and menthol are some of the many nuances that flesh out in the glass. Ultimately, though, the 2011 is largely defined by the texture and amplitude of the year. Brunate is often slow out of the gate, so I will not be surprised if that is the case here as well. Ideally, readers should plan on giving the 2011 at least a few years in bottle to fully come together.

Dark cherry, plum, smoke, menthol and spices meld together in the 2011 Barolo Brunate. Restrained and elegant in the glass, yet with fabulous depth, the 2011 Brunate is exceptionally beautiful. The rich, layerered finish provides a glimpse of what the future holds. Today, the Brunate is a real showstopper.

Cask sample and at the time of tasting they were undecided about whether the wine would be bottled under its vineyard name or disappear in the blend called Castiglione. Just mid ruby with orange rim. Lifted cherry nose. Sweet and leafy on the palate but otherwise still brooding and closed. Lots of stalky tannins and supple acidity showing up on the finish. (WS)