2009 Le Piane Boca

The 2012 Boca represents a traditional blend of 85% Nebbiolo with 15% Vespolina. It sees a longer maceration time and up to four years of aging in large oak casks. The bouquet in this vintage is slightly less expressive and subdued overall. As it warms in the glass, it begins a long and elegant presentation of dried rose, wild berry, licorice, campfire ash and white truffle. What sets this wine apart, however, is the extreme elegance and finesse of the mouthfeel. Christoph Künzli is a man of infectious charisma and joyful optimism. I highly recommend a visit to his little tasting room on the main square in the town of Boca. He also produces some of the finest wines you will find in Alto Piemonte. This high-performing winery is a true treasure not only for Piedmont but for Italian wine in general. (ML)