2012 Barolo Castellero
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Tasting notes
The 2012 Barolo Castellero opens to a light garnet color that can be mistaken for nothing else but Nebbiolo from the Langhe. The nose is elegant and graceful with dried flowers, spice and cassis. Soapy lavender notes also appear. This is a compact and firm expression that wraps over the palate with smooth persistence and nice length.
Critic scores
Average Score
Walter Speller, jancisrobinson.com
Walter Speller, jancisrobinson.com
More reviews and scores
Barolo. Maturing and just mid ruby with a narrow orange rim. Very closed and tight on the nose but hinting at depth. Hint of shoe polish. Intense and ripe, yet monolithic and far from open. Very firm and a little dry, but with intense, lingering fruit. Needs more time. (WS)
Powerful and explosive in the glass, the 2012 Barolo Castellero packs a serious punch. A compelling mélange of dark red cherry, plum, iron, herb, sage, dried flowers and leather takes shape in the glass. The tannins are a bit burly, and the wine clearly needs time to fully come together, but there is plenty to look forward to here. The Castellero is a terrific example of classic, old-school Barolo with decidedly virile leanings. It will appeal most to readers who enjoy big, structured wines.
Pale ruby with broad orange-tinged rim. Not showing much on the nose, but the cork has only been pulled this minute. Hints of orange and sweet fruit underneath. Minerality too. Vivid acidity but still a little closed on the fruit. Well-integrated firm tannins. Elegant palate weight. Slow burner. (WS)