2005 Barolo Ginestra Riserva

(this spent 60 months in large oak; the 2006 was still in barrel in September): Good full, dark red. Fresh, ripe aroma of red cherries macerated in alcohol, with complicating hints of leather, sweet spices, black olive and underbrush. Sweet, lush and broad, with ripe acidity contributing to an impression of powerful grip. A very large-scaled wine, especially in the context of the year, but juicy, floral and delineated, and not a bit heavy. Finishes with big toothcoating tannins and excellent length.

The 2005 Barolo Riserva Ginestra is a wine that will require considerable patience, as the tannins are quite firm. Dark cherries, plums, spices, leather and menthol wrap around the palate in this muscular, rich wine. This is a big, rich Barolo, but whether or not there is enough fruit to stand up to the tannin as the wine ages remains an open question. Based on my experience with this wine, I am inclined to think the structural elements will ultimately overpower the fruit.

The 2005 Barolo Riserva Ginestra is a wine that will require considerable patience, as the tannins are quite firm. Dark cherries, plums, spices, leather and menthol wrap around the palate in this muscular wine. This is a big, rich Barolo, but whether or not there is enough fruit to stand up to the tannin as the wine ages remains an open question. Based on my experience with this wine, I am inclined to think the structural elements will ultimately overpower the fruit. Anticipated maturity: 2015-2020. Proprietor Giorgio Conterno’s strength lies with the Nebbioli from his holdings in the Ginestra vineyard. Conterno makes a wide range of selections, but the straight Barolo Ginestra is his finest wine year in, year out. A Marc de Grazia Selection: de Grazia Imports; tel. (417) 732-4200