Wine Bottle Label
I admit to being a Nebbiolophile and in this expensive and highly appreciated top Barbaresco you will find all the expected traditional, and for the Nebbiolo grape typical references to varying degrees; roses, dried cherries, leather, violets and perhaps a hint of tar, but no truffles. This bottle (slow ox’d for 7 hours) was robust, but pure, with floral and mineral notes, opulent but not forceful in any way with splendid tannins present. This is a truly great wine, mature and balanced with great complexity, earthy of course, with an elegant finish with nuances of acid berries and also an inkling of citrus bergamia aromas. This wine is drinking beautifully today IMO, and possibly better than ever? I will enjoy the remaining few bottles over the next couple of years, but perhaps keep one for the long run..
The notes above does not aim at giving the reader a full descripion of this great bottle of Barbaresco, it’s just a muddled summary of my drinking experience. The very act of taking a wine tasting note, of putting into words my sensory experience, does not help me personally to focus more clearly on the wine in question. I prefer to develop an overall impression of the wine while not focusing on the many details. I don’t think that the subtle nuances will pass me without notice — I prefer the wine to come to me, not actively ‘analyzing’ the wine.
1998 is considered a good/great Piedmont vintage. Following spring rains, which caused some rot, a very hot summer
growing season and classic autumn brought warm daytime temperatures balanced by cool nights for gradual ripening. 1998 wines were typically refined and silky with moderate acidity for medium to long-term drinking. Harmonious and well balanced in general.
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