The 1997 Barolo Ciabot Mentin Ginestra is a fearsomely powerful, tannic, ultra-concentrated, explosively rich wine with a mid-palate in which one could get lost. A saturated ruby/purple color is accompanied by scents of lead pencil, cedar, black fruits, smoke, earth, and vanilla. Massive richness, monster extract, sweet tannin, and a blockbuster finish characterize this dazzling, 20-30 year wine. Anticipated maturity: 2005-2025. A Marc de Grazia Selection, various American importers, including Michael Skurnik, Syosset, NY; tel. (516) 677-9300, Vin Divino, Chicago, IL; tel. (773) 334-6700, and Estate Wines, Ltd., San Rafael, CA; tel. (415) 492-9411

Dark ruby, with a garnet edge. Violet, toasty oak, blackberry and plum. Full-bodied, with amazing fruit and super-ripe tannins. It's velvety and powerful. Still needs a lot of time. Spellbinding. Huge.--1997 Italian blind retrospective. Best after 2010. 350 cases made.??–JS??Region: Italy / Piedmont / Barolo Select to Add