2001 Elio Grasso, Barolo, Gavarini, Vigna Chiniera (RT94) Bought on release and stored in my cellar since, the 2001 Vigna Chiniera shows tertiary maturity on this night, as notes of dried plum, soaring aromatic cedar, pine resin, a potpourri of dried roses and white flowers, hints of white truffle and a powerful mineral laden finish create a mesmerizing bouquet. The palate demonstrates the classic weightlessness of mature Barolo, with fall-harvest dried fruit, refreshing acidity and significantly integrated tannins bringing up the close. This is a beautiful, mature Barolo, but begs the question why this bottling was in its completely mature stage while its vintage brother Vigna Case Mate remains fresh and vibrantly young. Likely a simple case of bottle variation. Based on this bottle I suggest Drink now-2031, but other bottles may show younger like the Case Mate that followed.
