2005 E Pira e Figli Barolo Cannubi

(93 Points) The 2005 Barolo Cannubi comes across as decidedly fresher and more powerful than the Via Nuova, particularly in its red fruit, which shows considerable depth and richness. The wine is sweet, long and pure. Notes of menthol, herbs, and spices make an appearance on the finish but those qualities find a counterpoint in the wine’s density and richness, such that the slight herbal qualities that are present are not at all unpleasant in the wine. Anticipated maturity: 2010-2020.

The always energetic Chiara Boschis is among the producers who did quite well in 2005. Boschis gave her 2005 Barolos 70% new oak, down from the 100% that was once the norm, and the wines show greater purity and integrity of fruit. Her vineyards in Cannubi, one of Barolo’s warmest sites, were well positioned (literally) to deal with the cooler vintage. In the higher-altitude, fresher Via Nuova, she took yields down a bit lower than normal to give the fruit the best chance to ripen. The proof is in the glass, and these are two exceptionally beautiful 2005 Barolos. Wine Advocate # 182, Apr 2009