Giacomo Conterno   Barolo Riserva Monfortino

1999 Barolo Riserva Monfortino

By Giacomo Conterno

1999 Barolo Riserva Monfortino from Giacomo Conterno

The realm of fine wines from Italy is vast, complex, and utterly captivating. At the zenith, we are introduced to epic creations like the 1999 Barolo Riserva Monfortino from Giacomo Conterno. A wine that stands as an ever impressive testament to this legendary producer's virtuosic talents.

 

Vision and Precision, an enviable ensemble

Situated in the heart of Piedmont, Conterno has earned recognition and respect for their ceaseless pursuit of quality. From their unrivalled finesse in the vineyard to their sublime touch in the cellar, each vintage tells an intriguing tale of time and place. The 1999 iteration of Conterno's magnificent Barolo Riserva Monfortino is no exception.

Gloriously complex and endlessly nuanced, this investable gem meticulously weaves together aromas of dark fruit, tobacco, truffle, and mint. A wine worthy of reverence from discerning oenophiles and savvy investors alike.

 

The Quintessence of Nebbiolo

The 1999 vintage was one that offered both challenges and rewards in equal measure in Piedmont. The weather was unpredictable, with a hot summer juxtaposed against a cool and rainy autumn. This played a crucial role in lending the signature expression to Nebbiolo grapes that year.

Endearing and robust yet elegantly restrained showcasing a splendid balance between power and finesse. There are elegant layers of cherry, plum, and intensified wild berry flavours interlacing with distinct tertiary nuances. The epic persistence of taste creates a lasting impression, echoing the virtues of its origin and producer.

In many respects, the 1999 Barolo Riserva Monfortino from Giacomo Conterno is a captivating orchestration of what could be achieved when the uncertainty of nature is met with insightful viticulture and masterful winemaking. It is an undeniable masterpiece worthy of significant consideration for wine enthusiasts and collectors seeking fine Italian wines for their portfolio. A wine that deftly reassures the belief that good wine is indeed made in the vineyard, but great wine in the hands of a patient and thoughtful winemaker.

Current market price

$23,520.00

12x75cl

Highest score

98

POP score

782.78

Scores and tasting notes

98

The 1999 Barolo Riserva Monfortino takes things to another level, hard as that may be to believe. It is deeply expressive in its aromatics, with breathtaking nuances of roses, menthol, spices and licorice that emerge from the glass, melding seamlessly onto the palate where complex layers of dark ripe fruit captivate the taster in an endless counterpoint of aromas, flavors and sensations that are hard to fully capture with mere words. Boasting much intensity and a more full-bodied structure than the 1998, with building tannins that define the eternal finish, it is wine to taste now and over the next 6-9 months before it begins to shut down. Sampled from both bottle and magnum, it is a remarkable wine in every way, and is sure to take a place among the great Monfortinos of all time. Those fortunate enough to own Monfortinos from the recent string of vintages dating back to 1995 as well as the equally promising 2000 and 2001 will no doubt enjoy debating the merits of these remarkable wines for years and decades to come. The 1999 Monfortino remains one of the greatest young wines I have ever tasted. Anticipated maturity: 2014-2039. Importers: Doug Polaner, Polaner Selections, Mt. Kisco, NY; tel. (914) 244-0404 and The Rare Wine Co., Sonoma, CA; tel. (707) 996-4484

Antonio Galloni - The Wine Advocate, 30 October 2006

Vintage performance