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Barolo Riserva Monfortino 2008

Conterno, Giacomo

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Tasting Notes

Menthol, earth, underbrush and tobacco flavors lead off in this monolithic red, with submerged sweet fruit. An intense array of mineral details emerge, persisting through the long aftertaste. Fresh and balanced, with a long life ahead. One of the wines of the vintage. Best from 2018 through 2035.

Score: 97

Bruce Sanderson, Wine Spectator Maturity: 2018-2035 30 April 2016

I don't think I have tasted a more refined Monfortino than the 2008. The aromatics alone are pure seduction. Weightless, refined and silky on the palate, the 2008 is all about finesse rather than power. Sweet cherry, plum, rose petal, lavender, dried herbs and spices are all beautifully delineated in the glass, but it is the wine's soaring personality that makes the deepest impression. Two thousand eight is an unusual year. An unexpected cold snap arrived in late October that extended the season while presenting the conditions for the grapes to develop extraordinary perfume. This fruit was harvested on October 31 and November 1, late even by Conterno's standards. The 2008 spent six years in barrel (rather than seven) and therefore one additional year in bottle before being released. I would not be surprised if Conterno makes the same decision for some vintages again in the future. The 2008 Monfortino is pure seduction.

Score: 98

Antonio Galloni, Vinous.com Maturity: 2018-2048 01 December 2015

The 2008 Barolo Riserva Monfortino is pure excitement. The bouquet alone is alluring, but then the wine begins to open up on the palate, revealing extraordinary depth. An explosion of fruit follows as dark berries, mint, roses, incense and tar flesh out in all directions. Huge, powerful tannins frame an extraordinary finish. This is going to be a thrilling Monfortino to follow over the coming years and decades. Anticipated maturity: 2028-2048. Roberto Conterno’s 2008s capture the best qualities of the vintage. They are intensely perfumed and impeccably refined. These will be fascinating wines to follow over the coming years. As for the rest of the wines in cask, they are pretty spectacular, too. Today I am most optimistic about the 2010s, but there seems to be no shortage of great wines aging in this historic cellar. Readers who want to get an early impression on 2010 will want to check out Conterno’s Barbere, which are shaping up beautifully.

Score: 96 - 98

Antonio Galloni, Wine Advocate, RobertParker.com Maturity: 2028-2048 01 April 2012

This is one of the most balanced and harmonious Monfortinos that I ever tasted. Aromas of dried rose petals and oranges. It's full-bodied yet compacted and tight. Tannins are perfectly managed. It makes you want to drink it now with its balance and finesse. All in harmony. This is from one of the latest harvests ever - started October 29. So fabulous and so perfect now. Why wait? But will age for decades.

Score: 99

James Suckling, JamesSuckling.com 23 September 2015