Nicolas Belfrage: Quite deep in colour. No great reminder of Nebbiolo on the nose, generally fruity and nondescript. Has the firmness of Barolo, but the fruit is middle-road, oak is in the way. Doesn't say much about Barolo - good wine perhaps, but where's the typicity? Has the broadness and richness of the 1997s, but without the character of Nebbiolo. 13.5

Simon Larkin : Slightly stewy aromatics of cherry and deep plum, the palate also showing a ripe plummy/damson fruit. The tannins are hugely assertive and culminate in a drying note that pervades the whole palate. A sound example that shows little by means of distinction or vineyard representation. An overworked style with modest purity, for drinking sooner rather than later. 13.5