The 2008 Barolo Nei Cannubi is striking. Freshly cut flowers, mint, spices and sweet red cherries are woven together in a rich, luxurious tapestry of undeniable class. The balance of richness and finesse is fabulous. Silky, polished tannins are barely perceptible, such is the elegance of the fruit. In 2008 the Cannubi is sumptuous, elegant, and flat-out beautiful. Anticipated maturity: 2016-2028. Einaudi has been one of the great recent success stories in Piemonte over the last few years. Under the leadership of energetic proprietor Matteo Sardagna, Einaudi's Baroli have never been better. Importer: Empson, USA, Alexandria, VA; tel. (703) 684-0900

This elegant Barolo shows tight astringency and firm layers of red fruit, spice, crushed stone and tobacco. It needs a few more years to find harmony. Drink after 2018. — (9/1/2012) —91

The 2007 Barolo Nei Cannubi is a dark, hulking wine of uncharacteristic power and richness. Waves of dark fruit completely cover the palate in a bold style that sits on the razor’s edge of overripeness. The due south facing Cannubi vineyard seems to have been somewhat penalized in 2007. Anticipated maturity: 2017-2027. This is another strong set of new releases from Einaudi. This year I was particularly impressed with the Barolo Costa Grimaldi. These days the Baroli see 20-25 days on the skins. Malolactic fermentation starts in steel and finishes in French oak. The 2007s spent 16 months in French oak (30% new) followed by 14 months in 50-hectoliter casks. Importer: Empson, USA, Alexandria, VA; tel. (703) 684-0900