Year after year, the Marcenasco bottling from the Renato Ratti estate offers superb examples of Barolo and particularly the sleek and elegant style of the commune of La Morra. The ripeness of the 2009 harvest adds flesh to an already fine wine. The bouquet is forward and complex, with sweet cherry and raspberry fruits enhanced by hints of sandalwood, cocoa, dried herbs, anise, potpourri and baking spices. The flavors are multilayered and rich with the ripe red fruits interwoven with the dried herb and floral nuances as well as the sandalwood, vanilla and spice components. Although forward and thoroughly enjoyable now for its generous fruit, the 2009 Marcenasco Barolo will develop and improve for another 15+ years in the cellar. It’s a great value among top class Barolos.
Renato Ratti, Barolo (Piedmont, Italy) 2009
By Wayne Belding