2015 Fratelli Alessandria Barolo Gramolere

The 2015 Barolo Gramolere (with fruit from Monforte d`Alba) opens to a medium-dark ruby color. When you put the wine to your lips, you immediately feel the power, structure and inner fiber of Nebbiolo as interpreted in this two-hectare parcel with its 30-year-old vines. In fact, this wine is defined by that immediate firmness. The aromas, however, are softer and more yielding with forest fruit, wild berry, crushed slate and blue flower. I would suggest putting this wine aside for five more years at least. 95+ points

The 2015 Barolo Gramolere is marked by its characteristic mid-weight structure and beams of incisive tannin. In 2015, the Gramolere is a bit softer than it usually is, but then again, that is the signature of the vintage. Hints of pine, menthol, spice and new leather add brightness and lift. The Gramolere is quite promising. It will be interesting to see if it gains a bit more structure. 90-93 points

Pale garnet. Clove spice over ripe, slightly jammy red cherry. Sweet red fruit, then some floral notes to the mid palate. Bright acidity and high, drying, chalky tannins. A little warming. 17 points