Enrico Serafino, Barolo (Piedmont, Italy) Nebbiolo 2017

 This is an amazing value among Barolos.  The Enrico Serafino Barolo is drawn from vineyards in four communes – Castiglione Falletto, La Morra, Serralunga and Monforte – and the wine reflects both the power of Monforte and Serralunga as well as the pure fruit and floral character of La Morra.  The 2017 Serafino is an elegant, appealing and complex Barolo.  While it shows the ripeness of the harvest and the sleek and subtle spiciness of oak, the unique style of the Nebbiolo grape commands center stage.  Layers of juicy raspberry, plum and cherry fruits are underlain by elements of dried flowers, leather, sandalwood, smoke and spice.  The flavors are pure, elegant and complex, with the delicate fruits enveloped by the classic, leafy, forest floor character of fine Barolo.  The beautiful, long finish combines delicacy, depth and complexity.  Delicious now, it can cellar well for another 10+ years.