2014 Paolo Scavino, Barolo, Monvigliero

The 2014 Barolo Monvigliero is closed and timid compared to the other wines in this portfolio of new releases from the Scavino family. This growing site is characterized by sharp diurnal shifts between day and nighttime temperatures. It has calcareous soils that are light in color. The vineyard is less than one hectare in size and was planted in 1968, with a newer part planted in 2005. The family started to vinify it as a cru expression starting with the 2007 vintage. Because Monvigliero is a cool growing site in the warmest years, the fruit feels even fresher and thinner in this cool vintage. Although the wine was in a closed or reduced state when I tasted it, you can still identify aromas of dark fruit, iron and crushed mineral. There are also some green notes of dried mint or oregano. This is the least expressive wine of the lot.

The 2014 Barolo Monvigliero is fruity and soft, as most of the wines are in this vintage. There aren't too many vintage or site characteristics in this fruity, oaky, easygoing Barolo.

Verduno. Tasted blind. Concentrated ruby. Quite leafy and herbal with hints of raspberries. Ripe leafy fruit that still has to take on definition. Gorgeous chewy tannins, but the fruit is just not there (yet). (WS)