1990 Barolo

The 1990 Barolo Cascina Francia comes across as much more classic and old-school next to the 1999. Layered and expressive, the 1990 also shows some slightly frayed edges. This is a very good bottle, but not the most perfect example I have had.

The 1990s were both sensational. Actually, we had three 1990 Barolos. Conterno did not make any Barolo in 1991 and 1992. In order to stretch out their 1990s over these vintages Conterno left one lot of the 1990 Barolo Cascina Francia in barrel a year later than normal. So, there are two different bottlings of the 1990 Cascina Francia. Unfortunately we didn’t know that before the wines were decanted, so we had to deduce through tasting which might be which. I am not sure we got it right, but the first 1990 was rich, seductive and very representative of the vintage, while the second bottle had more of everything. It was essentially a mini-Monfortino in its majestic expression of intensely perfumed fruit. (Bottles of the 1990 Barolo Cascina Francia that were shipped to the US through official channels were all from the original release, but no lot number is indicated on the label. Conterno released both versions of the 1990 Cascina Francia in Italy and in other markets. Bottles with a lot number beginning with 4 are from the lot that spent 4 years in oak, while bottles with a lot number beginning with 5 spent an extra year in cask.)

The 1990 Barolo Cascina Francia possesses gorgeous richness and transparency, while the weight of Serralunga comes through in spades. Seductive and powerful, this magical Barolo is utterly spellbinding. Today, the 1990 Cascina Francia delivers an incredibly hedonistic Barolo experience that is sure to send readers into a state of near-ecstasy, especially if bottles have been well-stored. Flowers, licorice, anise and dark red fruits linger on the powerful yet ethereal finish. What a beautiful Barolo!