2004 Mauro Veglio Barolo Arborina (Italy, Piedmont, Langhe, Barolo)

It's official. I like Veglio's 2004 Arborina much better than his 2004 Castelletto. Everything I didn't like about the Castelletto, this Arborina succeeds in. No hint of barrique treatment, no massive extraction, and no flabbiness. This wine is really very nice. It shows restraint, finesse and precision. Red berries, flowers, and menthol on the palate and a killer autumnal/leafy/earthy nose. Wonderful finish and quite tannic. Great intensity of flavor and a very subtle sweetness of the fruit on the finish. This is one that every lover of traditionally styled Barolo should load up on.