2001 Sandrone, Barolo, Le Vigne (RT 95) SO’d for the day, then decanted immediately prior to serving as it had developed some sediment. Blended from four fabulous Cru vineyards: Baudana, Villero, Vignane and Merli. Tonight the 2001 Le Vigne is firing on all cylinders revealing a very youthful, showy fruit profile built on a broad-shouldered frame of dark, ripe red and black cherries, fresh plum, lilacs and hints of tar. The mouthfeel is spectacular with decadent fruit layering, fresh acidity and firm, but magnificently integrated tannin. Sandrone is a master at integrating French oak into his wines in a seamless fashion. This is the third bottle of this wine I’ve opened and far and above the best yet, but it still needs more time to start to show even the most minor of tertiary notes. An impressive and outstanding showing and a reminder of just how fabulous the 2001 vintage is in Barolo. Recommended for the Barolo connoisseur. Drink now – 2036
