1961 Barolo Monfortino Riserva
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Tasting notes
A comparison of two 1961s from Giacomo Conterno is next. Conterno’s 1961 Barolo Riserva Speciale Monfortino is, not surprisingly, deeper and more intense in all of its dimensions. Iron, smoke, graphite, leather and sweet tobacco wrap around a core of dark fruit in a Barolo that packs a serious punch, especially considering its age. This is a superb bottle.
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Average Score
The Wine Advocate
Antonio Galloni, Vinous
More reviews and scores
The 1955 is tough to follow, but the 1961 Monfortino proves up to the task. Here it is the wine’s pure textural finesse and inner sweetness that dazzle most of all. In this flight, the 1947 and 1955 got better with air, while the 1961 was at its most beautiful early on.
From a private collection in New York. Great, classic collectable Barolo made by Conterno when both Aldo and Giovanni were at the original family firm. Made only in the finest years; sometimes as few as 600 cases. The wine may have spent between six and 10 years in botte (large wooden casks). Wonderfully jewel-like, almost burgundian fruit. Surely at its peak now. Dry and dusty with some VA. Very clean and fresh, with fully resolved tannin at last! Quite brisk and bracing, at the top of its tree. Very firm, long and ethereal. 19/20
The 1961 Barolo Riserva Monfortino was pretty, but not in anywhere near as pristine shape. It was a delicate, Burgundian Barolo with an enticing bouquet and delicate, perfumed fruit.
About the producer
Giacomo Conterno is arguably Barolo’s most celebrated estate. While most famous for its Monfortino Riserva, the quality found in every bottling of Nebbiolo and Barbera at this address makes them a benchmark producer for both varieties.