2001 Luigi Pira Barolo Vigna Rionda (Piedmonte): "The 2001 Barolo Vigna Rionda, an attractive dark ruby, shows its pedigree, with a beautiful nose of spices and menthol. It is concentrated yet silky on the palate, revealing elegant notes of dark, backward fruit, licorice, tar, chocolate and minerals, with an exquisitely long finish. I find it more understated and nuanced than the Marenca. Aged in 100% new barriques. Anticipated maturity: 2009-2019." 93 points. Wine Advocate #167 (Oct 2006)
"Good full red. Raspberry, menthol, mocha and nutty oak on the nose, with subtle nuances of smoke and earth. Suave and penetrating, with sneaky flavor intensity; strong red fruit character complicated by an enticing woodsy element. Very concentrated, fresh wine with lovely sweetness. Finishes very long and juicy, with ripe, building tannins. In the same quality league as the excellent '99 Vigna Rionda from this estate." ~92 points, Stephen Tanzer's International Wine Cellar, Nov/Dev 04
Lots of plum and new oak on the nose with hints of dried fruits. Full-bodied, with plenty of ripe fruit and character on the palate. Fascinating combination of new wood and ripe fruit. Best after 2008. 380 cases made. 91 Points, Wine Spectator, Issue: Oct 15, 2005 | 
