2012 Giuseppe Rinaldi, Barolo, Tre Tine

The 2012 Barolo Tre Tine is lifted, precise and gracious, with beams of firm supporting tannin that give the wine its energy and sense of proportion. Tasted next to the Brunate, the Tre Tine is distinctly more aromatic, delicate and feminine in style, with plenty of bright red fruit and floral overtones. I also tasted the 2012 from a bottle opened two days prior, and the wine had retained pretty much all of its precision. Although the Brunate is the most coveted wine at Rinaldi, the Tre Tine has been impressive in its first three vintages. The 2012 is no exception. Tre Tine is a blend of fruit from the Rinaldi family's holdings in Cannubi (San Lorenzo), Ravera and Le Coste. March 2016

Red berry, tilled soil, leather, aromatic herb and clove aromas slowly take shape in the glass together with a balsamic note. The bright, elegantly structured palate doles out layers of black raspberry, ripe black cherry, white pepper and licorice while firm, refined tannins provide the framework. It’s subtle and loaded with finesse. Drink 2017–2022. Kerin O'Keefe

Formally known as Barolo Cannubi S. Lorenzo - Ravera, this wine has been renamed Tre Tine. The 2012 Barolo Tre Tine is a beautifully fragrant and elegantly perfumed Nebbiolo with a graceful and ethereal approach. This is traditional Barolo in its highest and most distinguished form. The bouquet offers pressed rose, licorice, tobacco, cola, dried fruit and white truffle. The quality of these aromas is pristine and sharp. Barolo Tre Tine takes a similar approach on the palate with long, silky tannins. This wine is built to last.

Barolo. Mid ruby with orange tinges. Savoury rather than fruity on the nose. Hints of cherry and strawberry fruit and a little backward. Solid tannins on a long finish. Not the most polished but certainly exciting. (WS)