2008 Elio Grasso, Barolo, Ginestra, Case Mate (RT96) A stunning showing for this benchmark bottling with the structure of the vintage shining through the clouds. Just Wow! I followed this for a whopping 8 days – a time frame I rarely dare venture to – and it remained nearly as fresh at the end as it did on the first day. Beautiful, mineral-driven, soaring aromatics with notes of high toned red cherry and rose petal, this is just now starting to reveal early tertiary elements. The palate is firm and well balanced with its acidity maintaining a steady presence and the tannins evident yet artistically proportioned. For my palate this needs another 5+ years of cellaring to show its early finest and will drink well for decades. This was the first bottle I’ve checked in on of 8 purchased on release and since cellared in my cave. Drink 2028-2043+