2009 La Spinetta Barbaresco Starderi
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Tasting notes
The 2009 Barbaresco Riserva Starderi (magnum) is in a gorgeous spot where it is starting to show the signs of having entered an early plateau of maturity. Even so, it retains formidable tannic clout and tons of intensity. The 2009 appears to have enough fruit to develop well for another 7-10 years. Even with considerable aeration the tannins remain formidable.
Critic scores
Stephen Tanzer, Vinous
Antonio Galloni, Vinous
More reviews and scores
La Spinetta’s 2009 Barbaresco Vigneto Starderi is bursting with energy, even if it doesn’t quite have the sheer richness or pure depth of the very best vintages. Still, the Starderi is a hugely appealing wine that only needs time to shed some tannin. Raspberry jam, flowers, mint and cloves are followed by darker, more brooding aromas and flavors. As always, the Starderi is the richest and most imposing of the Spinetta Barbareschi. Anticipated maturity: 2017-2027. Importers: Indigenous Selections, Fort Lauderdale FL; tel. (954) 530-4021; Skurnik Wines, Syosset, NY; tel. (516) 677-9300
Medium red with a trace of amber at the edge. Sour cherry, minerals and an exotic whiff of peach on the reticent nose; smells denser and darker than the Starderi. Lush but closed in the mouth, with energetic minerality framing the dark berry flavors. The very long, lively finish coats the teeth with fine-grained tannins. Impressive.