Elio Grasso, Barolo Gavarini Chiniera, 2008

Profound traditional Barolo from a benchmark Monforte d'Alba estate, now with prime bottle age. For decades Elio Grasso has made tiny quantities of single-vineyard Barolo from two of Monforte's greatest crus. Gavarini Chiniera sits at around 400 meters on sandier soils, giving the more perfumed and elegant of the pair. The 2008 was a classic, structured vintage, and at well over fifteen years this Nebbiolo has softened into a mature, complex window while keeping its energy. A wine that rewards both patience and a decanter.