Vigna Rionda Barolo Parafada 1996

Vigna Rionda Barolo Parafada 1996: A slightly less dense, although more vibrant, hue than the basic Barolo from this estate (tasted last week). An exotic, enticing nose, densely perfumed, full of parma violets over a layer of liquorice and cigar box with notes of black fruits and oak. Most impressive on the palate is the lush, wanton texture and warm, rounded mouthfeel. Sweet, ripe black fruit and liquorice flavours. Balanced, quite fluid, despite a firm structure. It needs food at present, but a better option would be to squirrel it away for some time. It has a firm core of tannin which will see it improve in the cellar for five years at least. 16.5+/20 (11/8/03)