Giacomo Conterno   Barolo Riserva Monfortino

2013 Barolo Riserva Monfortino

By Giacomo Conterno

2013 Barolo Riserva Monfortino from Giacomo Conterno, Piedmont.

The 2013 vintage of the Barolo Riserva Monfortino from Giacomo Conterno is an emblematic representation of the fine wines from Italy, and the Barolo Riserva Monfortino exemplifies this aspect exquisitely. This bold vinous champion is a tantamount celebration of the prowess of Monfortino, a testament to the bountiful yield of 2013, no less owed to the exceptional vineyard-handed skills honed in Giacomo Conterno's six generations of artisan winemaking heritage.

 

A pivotal vintage for strategic investment

Investors have long considered building portfolios around regions with outstanding winemaking histories and terroirs conducive for fine wine growth. As such, the 2013 vintage from Giacomo Conterno's Barolo Riserva Monfortino portfolio marks a noteworthy point for fine wine investment.

The year 2013 in Piedmont was generally cool for most duration, leading to excellent vine health. This has introduced fresh elements into a palate that is dominated by dark fruits and licorice in the mid-palate but eased with aromas of fragrant rose petals - undeniably fitting its 'king of wines' moniker.

 

Conjuring unique essence

The viscosity in the 2013 Barolo Riserva Monfortino is brilliantly offset by rich silky tannins that create an exquisite dance of power and elegance on the palate. Dry weather during harvest period has lent this wine an intense concentration and depth, imbuing it with an elegant aura that is resolute, yet refined.

Discerning collectors have always admired Giacomo Conterno's Riserva Monfortino for its incredible ageing potential and complex character. The 2013 commands special recognition for its balanced symphony of power and finesse. This is one successful association of factors that enrich the wine's desirability in fine wine investment.

 

Final Comment

While always exquisite, the Riserva Monfortino 2013 from Giacomo Conterno stands out as one of the best presentations, harnessing the favourable climatic conditions of the year, and manifesting a compelling example of thoughtful viticulture and passionate winemaking.

To aficionados or those seeking prestige from their investments, here lies an opportunity to possess a fine wine with undisputed longevity, standing proudly as an outstanding example of Piedmont's heralded wine history.

Current market price

$15,420.00

12x75cl

Highest score

98

POP score

513.33

Scores and tasting notes

98

I have been tasting this wine from barrel for the past two years and now finally, abracadabra, the 2013 Barolo Riserva Monfortino is safely housed in bottle. The wine was bottled in June of last year and will hit the market this upcoming October. The Barolo Francia was not produced in 2013 because Roberto Conterno diverted all fruit from that vineyard to this wine. Monfortino was not produced in 2011 or 2012, meaning that this 2013 edition follows directly after the absolutely stunning 2010 vintage (which earned a perfect 100-point score). The two vintages (2010 and 2013) are very similar, strikingly so, but the 2013 vintage registers at a slightly lower structural threshold. The tannins are slightly looser, or softer in the case of this wine. With up to six years in botte, the 2010 vintage is still crunchy and super sharp, while this wine is slightly more succulent and earthy. Some 20,000 bottles, 2,500 magnums and 400 three-liter bottles were made.

Monica Larner - The Wine Advocate, 28 June 2019

Vintage performance