Elio Grasso, Barolo Gavarini Chiniera, 2004

Elio Grasso is one of Monforte d'Alba's most respected Barolo estates, family-run and known for combining traditional structure with polish and purity. Gavarini Chiniera is a single-vineyard bottling from their Gavarini cru, Nebbiolo grown on the steep slopes around the family home, aged in large Slavonian oak casks in the more classic Grasso style. The 2004 was a great, balanced Barolo vintage, and at twenty-plus years this is mature and fully expressive. Decant well ahead to let it open and serve in a generous glass. Mature, single-vineyard Barolo from a benchmark grower.