Elvio Cogno, Barolo, La Vigna Elena Riserva 2015

The 2015 Barolo Riserva Ravera Vigna Elena is very tight - but then again, it won't be released for another two years. Intense, searing tannins Sweet red fruit, white pepper, mint, and tobacco come together in a wine that is not quite as refined as usually. This is one of the most tightly wound, classically austere Barolos readers will find in 2015, at least today. The searing tannins need time to soften, which will in turn allow the fruit to emerge more fully.