2001 M Marengo Barolo Bricco delle Viole
(from a vineyard located above Brunate) Bright ruby-red. Aromas of red cherry, mocha, cedar and mace, with an exotic floral element (as well as a suggestion of dill pickle that quickly dissipated). Sweet, sappy and primary, with flavors of red berries, flowers and spices. Finishes with firm tannic spine and lingering flowers and spices. Still a baby.
2001 M Marengo Barolo Brunate
Bright, dark red. Musky aromas of raspberry, nutmeg, mace, chocolate and dried flowers. Sweeter and denser than the Bricco Viole but quite backward. A full, chewy, rather powerful wine with very good inner-mouth energy. Finishes long and powerful, with substantial tannic clout and lingering sweetness. This will require at least a few years to soften.
2000 M Marengo Barolo Brunate
($58) Good medium-deep red. Aromas of plum, redcurrant and smoke; a bit diffuse. Sweet, supple and low-toned on the palate, with woodsy and earthy notes and soft acids. Finishes with slightly dry but light tannins. (Marc de Grazia; numerous importers, including Michael Skurnik Wines, Syosset, NY; Vin Divino, Chicago, IL; and Estate Wines Ltd., San Rafael, CA)
