Prunotto, Barolo (Piedmont, Italy) 2010

This wine stood out among the releases from this famous vineyard in Monforte D’Alba, though not in the way that generally draws gaudy scores.  Conspicuously pale in color, it doesn’t look like an exceptional wine…until one recalls that Nebbiolo–like Pinot Noir–doesn’t reliably show its level of flavor impact accurately from its appearance.  The aromas are extremely expressive and interesting, showing lovely floral, savory and spice notes up top, with ripe fruit scents underneath.  On the palate, the sweet fruit notes effectively counterbalance the wine’s acidity and tannin, making for a proportional and delicate finish.  Excellent, and tasteful, too.