The 2007 Barolo Ravera shows marvelous depth and richness, but is not hugely different from the Cascina Nuova, perhaps because the vintage has such a strong influence in both wines. It is a big, muscular Barolo endowed with layers of dark fruit, mocha, leather, licorice and smoke. A large, scaled dramatic finish rounds out this compelling, totally delicious Barolo. Anticipated maturity: 2015-2025. Walter Fissore and Nadia Cogno continue to do fabulous work. Cogno is one of the very finest estates in Piedmont, yet somehow remains under the radar. Every wine I tasted this year was brilliant, but the Baroli in particular are magnificent. The wines are made in a fairly traditional style, which means they need bottle age, even at the entry-level. Native yeasts, lengthy submerged-cap macerations, and a reliance on large, neutral oak casks for the top Baroli are the rule. Importer: Vias Imports, New York, NY; tel. (212) 629-0200

A tightly wound red, whose solid structure is coiled around a core of cherry and strawberry flavors. White pepper and tobacco notes add interest, as this is on the astringent side now. Long, with a spice- and underbrush-accented finish. Best from 2015 through 2030. 600 cases imported.??–BS??Region: Italy / Piedmont / Barolo Select to Add