2015 Barolo, Brunate, Marcarini, Piedmont, Italy

Pale ruby. Very pale rim. Lightly tarry nose with some promise of sandy texture. Light and lively. The definition of a transparent wine. Very dry finish. Long. With an impressively meaty streak and very refreshing acidity.

Subtle aromas and flavors of strawberry, cherry, rose and spice mark this elegant red. Fluid and firmly structured, just tipping toward the dry side on the tannic finish. Succulent. Best from 2022 through 2033. 2,000 cases made, 900 cases imported.

The 2015 Barolo Brunate is powerful, dense and tightly wound. That should not be much of an issue, as the 2015 will be released later than normal, a path Marcarini will take gradually over the next few years with the goal of releasing the wine two years later than they had previously. Dark and hulking in the glass, the 2015 is clearly not in the mood to show all of its cards today. Iron, smoke, menthol, game, dried rose petal and soil tones give the Brunate its brooding, inward personality.

Aromas of pralines, tar and ripe fruit follow through to a full body, with lovely density and richness. Very velvety and plush on the finish. Gorgeous already, but shows lovely length and breed.

From one of the most celebrated vineyards in the denomination, this stunning red opens with enticing scents of rose, camphor, aromatic herbs and a whiff of sandalwood. The succulent, elegant palate delivers juicy Marasca cherry, crushed pomegranate, licorice and sweet tobacco framed by taut, polished tannins. It's nicely balanced by fresh acidity. Drink 2022–2032.