The nose opens with sandalwood and rosewood, leading to a garden of dried rose petals and violets. The palate shows succulent dried cherries, red currants, and subtle notes of orange peel and star anise. While juicy and approachable, it maintains Nebbiolo's hallmark grace with fine-grained tannins and fresh acidity, an impressive feat given the vintage's challenges. — Jeff Porter (2003 vintage)