1998: Youthful. Broad on the palette, with tannins not far behind. This is the Barolo for CA Cab lovers, with a chewy, dense mouthfeel, yet packed with fruit and tasting brand new, rather than 17 years old. Also poured at Quince for white truffle menu. While not showing the same level of complexity as the 1971 or 1985 at the same meal, it was roundly admired, and preferred by some. — 10 years ago
Honestly, I forgot I had this and was worried I was 10 years too late with it. But I tell you what… there is life left in this bottle! Dark fruit, mostly gone but still there. Chocolate and leather too. Then come raisins. Bone dry, smooth but not silky, still some black tea tannins and big structure. Yes, it’s past prime (at 28 years old, I was out of my prime too!) but wisdom replaces energy. — 8 months ago
A continuation of sharing my early impressions of the 2021 vintage in Barolo; Cavallotto is one of those benchmark producers for me, inextricably connected to Bricco Boschis, which they have farmed for nearly 100 years. Popped and poured; enjoyed over the course of a few hours. The 2021 Bricco Boschis pours a brilliant garnet color with a transparent core; medium+ viscosity with no staining of the tears. On the nose, the wine is developing with powerful notes of Morello cherry, dehydrated orange, cumin, tar, roses, talcum powder, fresh sage and fresh mint, and dried gravelly earth. On the palate, the wine is bone dry with structure like that of Helm’s Deep; the tannins are absolutely rippin’ and acid at medium+. Confirming the notes from the nose. The finish is extremely long, savory and drying, to the point that you feel it in your gums several minutes. A brilliant Barolo that has a very long life ahead. Drink now with plenty of air and patience through 2071. Pairs well with hearty lasagna and baseball. — 7 months ago
One of my favorite Italians — 9 years ago
Alvaro Bustillos
Piazza Duomo acker — 6 months ago