Rampolla, Alceo, IGT 2008

Exotic, racy notes abound in the 2008 d'Alceo. Dark red and black fruit, jasmine, smoke and sweet spices are some of the many notes that meld together as the 2008 opens up. Dark and intense to the core, the 2008 boasts tremendous richness and volume, all in a style that is quite sumptuous and is quite suggestive of a late harvest. The 2008 has begun to open up over the last year or so. Today it is super sexy and hugely appealing.

Going back in time, the Castello dei Rampolla 2008 d'Alceo is another beauty, showing hints of cola and rosemary folded into tart cherry and cassis. The wine shows excellent freshness coupled with a delicate approach, with blue blowers and soft earthy perfumes to follow. There is freshness and integrated minerality. It starts off with beautiful ethereal notes, but the wine changes quickly in the glass 10 minutes later. When you come back, it reverts to a hint of something savory like bresaola and granular tannins.