For the Barolo lover: wall maps of the Barolo region

Unless you really know what you’re doing -- or have very deep pockets, it may not be the best idea to give a bottle of wine to a highly opinionated wine lover. But here’s an idea that will work, at least for someone who loves Italian wines: a map of Barolo and the surrounding villages suitable for framing.

It’s the work of Alessandro Masnaghetti, whom British wine writer Jancis Robinson has dubbed “Italy’s undisputed expert on terroir.” Masnaghetti has previously produced highly detailed maps of Barolo’s single communes with all the various crus, including information on size, altitude, exposures, and ownership on the back.

The maps are sent rolled in a tube. Available from Rare Wine Co. in Sonoma. The Cru di Enogea Barolo Map is $12.95; the Cru di Enogea Barbaresco Map is $12.95.

The technically inclined can also find Masnaghetti maps for the iPad on iTunes, including the various Barolo communes, each at $8.99. That’s handy for reference or study, but it’s much nicer hanging on your wall where you can look up the exact vineyard as you uncork a bottle of Sandrone’s Barolo from the famed Cannubi vineyard.

To see all of the wine maps Alessandro Masnaghetti has published, check his website.

ALSO:

At last, new olive oil that smells like Italian

Joseph Centeno’s Bar Ama to open Saturday

For the passionate baker: a hand-turned walnut pastry wheel

twitter.com/sirenevirbila