Robert Parker's Wine Advocate: 94 points
The 2005 Barolo Vigna d-La Roul is one of the darker and firmer Barolos in this line-up. Today the wine remains incredibly primary, with little aromatic complexity. Over time, subtle notes of tar, dark fruit, spices and licorice emerge, but the wine stands out for its generous, harmonious core of fruit that works as a wonderful counterpoint to the firm tannins. This is a beautiful and very complete Barolo. Like all of the estate's wines, it only needs time. Anticipated maturity: 2015-2030.
Review date: October 2009
Stephen Tanzer's International Wine Cellar: 92 points
Good full red. Fresh strawberry and cherry aromas are lifted by an intriguing musky, smoky minerality. A step up in size, sweetness and texture from the Big, with the smoky minerality continuing in the mouth. Fat and sweet but also nicely perfumed, with a seriously tactile mouth feel and impressive definition. Finishes long, with ripe, toothcoating tannins. The wine from this vineyard tastes like it's from another vintage, and clearly benefitted from its southwest exposure and calcaire-rich soil.
Review date: November 2009