Elio Grasso, Barolo, Runcot Riserva 2010

This is such a gorgeous wine. The 2010 Barolo Riserva Rüncot is undeniably beautiful and profound. It's almost hard to know where to start. The wine's appearance is velvety and rich. The bouquet opens to a long playlist of distinct characteristics that immediately remind you of the Langhe. You'll recognize wild cherry with licorice, white truffle, balsam herb and toasted hazelnut. These tones are delivered with just the right intensity. The are compelling, but never overwhelming. The finish offers an exciting succession of tiny detailing. The wine moves over the palate with silky intensity, imparting mineral tones of flint and campfire ash along the way. The persistence can be counted in many long, pleasurable minutes.

Grasso's 2010 Barolo Riserva Rüncot is fabulous. The flavors are bright, sculpted and finely nuanced throughout, with plenty of sweet red cherry, cranberry, mint and chalk overtones. Aging in French oak (all untoasted) gives the wine its signature feel and texture. I have seen the Rüncot develop beautifully with time in bottle. I imagine that will be the case here was well. Gianluca Grasso has really honed in a super-appealing style that straddles classic and more modern styles effortlessly.