1978 Barolo Vigna Rionda Riserva
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Giacosa’s 1978 Barolo Riserva Collina Rionda remains epic. What a wine! Still deep and virile, the 1978 captures a breathtaking array of darker shades of Nebbiolo and Rionda in a year that was cold until perfect weather during the month of September saved the harvest. Waves of tannin enshroud a core of black cherry, leather, licorice, sage, menthol and spice. Time in the glass brings out so much complexity and character. What a pleasure it is to drink the 1978 from an absolutely pristine bottle. Longevity will ultimately be determined by the quality of the cork and cellaring conditions because the wine itself is immortal. In a word: Monumental.
Critic scores
Robert Parker
Robert Parker
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Bruno Giacosa’s 1978 Barolo Riserva Collina Rionda is second only to the celestial 1989. Here it is the wine’s structure and depth that impress above all else. The 1978 remains one of the greatest wines of Giacosa’s career.
The 1978 Barolo Riserva Speciale Collina Rionda isn't too far behind. This is a tremendous example of a legendary wine from one of the great all-time Piedmont vintages. While the 1982 won't be at its peak forever, it appears that well-stored bottles of the 1978 might not have arrived yet!
The 1978 Riserva and 1982 Riserva were flat-out great examples of these legendary Barolos. The 1978 Barolo Riserva Collina Rionda was utterly spellbinding from start to finish. What a wine! A powerful, virile wine at 32 years of age, the 1978 flowed with layers of dark fruit, mint, flowers and spices, all wrapped around a seriously intense frame.
About the producer
Bruno Giacosa – now run by daughter Bruna – is a cult Nebbiolo producer, that has consistently made some of the best single-vineyard Barbaresco and Barolo from the 1960s onwards. The“red-label” Riservas are some of the finest and most collectable wines in Italy.