2014 Barolo LAZZARITO Vietti

This wine represents a tremendous effort. The 2014 Barolo Lazzarito is a powerhouse Nebbiolo. Luca Currado tells me that this is one of the best vintages he has ever made. I felt it important to record his comment here because it comes as a very refreshing affirmation given all the controversy and naysaying that surrounds the 2014 vintage. Lazzarito vines sit in a shallow amphitheater that tends to lock in the summer heat. Indeed, this vineyard site suffers most in the scorching hot years and performs best in the coolest years. The bouquet is opulent and bold with black fruit and distinct traces of sweet chocolate and espresso. The mouthfeel is succulent and rich in natural fruit fiber and sweet tannins.

The Vietti estate produced exactly 46% less fruit in 2014. (It's impossible not to admire that precision.) Luca Currado likens 2014 to what he calls a "bell bottom" vintage because it reminds him of the iconic wines of yesteryear, such as 1961, 1964 and 1971.

Galloni 96,

In many ways, the gorgeous 2014 Barolo Lazzarito is the most surprising wine in the range. Once a stylistic outlier with a considerable French oak influence, today it is much closer to the other Barolos in terms of feel. Deep, dark and intense, with all of the energy of the year very much on display, the Lazzarito is super-expressive and shows a more red-toned profile than is the norm. Kirsch, mint, rose petal and chalk all develop in the glass, while beams of tannin and salinity give the wine shape and persistence. The weight and depth of Serralunga come through on the midpalate and into the finish. Even so, this is in a decidedly laid-back style for Serralunga. In 2014, I especially like the wine's aromatic presence. 

-- Antonio Galloni

Wine Spectator 94, Bright cherry and plum flavors are girded by chalky tannins in this red. Tar, tobacco, green tea and leafy elements add depth and the finish lingers. Best from 2023 through 2040. 527 cases made, 159 cases imported. — BS