This polished and structured Barolo presents rich fruit and floral scents of black cherry, plum and rose. The dark fruit and spice flavors layered with eucalyptus and balsamic notes are delicious. It's still young, with bracing but ripe tannins that need to soften, but this already shows great complexity.

The 2009 Barolo Bric Del Fiasc is following a wonderful trajectory. Initially quite closed, the 2009 has begun to open up beautifully over the last few months. It is one of the most vibrant, nuanced wines of the year, with a level of crystalline purity that is unusual. Fresh and delineated, the 2009 boasts striking inner perfume and seemingly endless layers of flavor. The firm Bric del Fiasc tannins are present, but not as imposing as they usually are. Iron, menthol and host of balsamic-infused notes inform the muscular finish. There is little question the 2009 has the potential to be one of the wines of the year. Today, it is drop-dead gorgeous.

The 2009 Barolo Bric del Fiasc is also a mild-mannered wine, but it seems to have fared the summer heat with a higher degree of success. Pleasing tones of underbrush, wild berry, white truffle and licorice back its dry, firmly polished tannins. The extra class and elegance on display are undeniable.