The 2008 Barolo Vigna Rionda possesses striking inner perfume and sweetness as it wraps around the palate. Raspberries, hard candy, flowers, mint and sweet spices are some of the many notes that flow from this effortless, sensual Barolo. Silky tannins are present, but they are nearly covered by the pure sensuality of the fruit. Today the Rionda is supple, sweet and totally inviting. The finish is intense and totally haunting. This is an exceptional, hugely promising Barolo from Giampaolo Pira. Anticipated maturity: 2016-2028.
This is an impressive set of wines from Giampaolo Pira. The wines aren’t as massive as they sometimes are, but that is just fine. I also noted that the use of oak was much more polished than in some recent vintages