Giacomo Conterno, Barolo, Francia 2008

One of the best Cascina Francias in a long time. It shows aromas of melons and plums with hints of hazelnut and coca. Full body and dense with gorgeous silky tannins and an incredible finish. The texture is wonderful. Pure velvet. Chocolate and cedar. Orange peel. So long and beautiful. Love the finish. Very approachable now but better in four or five years.

The 2008 Barolo Cascina Francia possesses gorgeous inner perfume, layers of sublime fruit and fabulous overall balance. Plums, dark cherries and licorice are followed by darker notes of graphite and tar as the wine opens up in the glass. Today, the 2008 is much less expressive than it has been the many times I have tasted it from barrel. It will be interesting to see how the 2008 develops and whether it puts on weight or remains more of a mid-weight, gracious Barolo. Either way, it is fabulous. Anticipated maturity: 2018-2048.