Critics Ratings

Aldo Conterno Barolo Bussia Cicala 2009
‘Aromas of fresh cherry, raspberry, licorice and spice fill the glass as this red unfolds. Offers dense tannins and bright acidity, lending definition to the cherry, strawberry, tobacco and spice flavors that persist through the long finish. Best from 2017 through 2030.’ - Bruce Sanderson, Wine Spectator, 94/100 (Dec 2013)

‘Good full red. Reticent aromas of plum, leather, licorice and menthol. Big, rich, tactile and backward, with medicinal redcurrant and licorice flavors dominating. In a more classic style than the Colonnello but still with the generosity of the 2009 vintage. The very long, echoing but extremely backward finish features huge, broad, chewy tannins and penetrating acidity – actually 6.2g/l according to Conterno, who emphasized that the estate was able to pick early as a result of eliminating so many green grapes at the end of August.’ - Stephen Tanzer, Vinous, 93/100 (Nov 2013)

Aldo Conterno Barolo Colonnello 2009
‘Alluring and complex aromas of cherry, licorice, sandalwood and leather segue into sweet berry, floral and spice flavors in this red, which is still a bit monolithic, but harmonious and youthful, with a long finish and a spicy aftertaste. Best from 2017 through 2032.’ - Bruce Sanderson, Wine Spectator, 95/100 (Dec 2013)

‘Darkly concentrated and rich, it sets the stage beautifully for 2009 Barolo thanks to its enormous grace, power and elegance. Where it really wins praise, however, is in the mouth. It shows solid grip and firm tannic tenacity that is bold and muscular without going over the top. It moves steadily over the palate in an exceptional manner. The bouquet opens to wild cherry, black licorice and drying notes of crushed white pepper. Anticipated maturity: 2016-2030.’ - Monica Larner, Wine Advocate, 95+/100 (Jun 2013)

‘Good bright medium red. Lovely primary aromas of blueberry, mint, violet and rose petal, plus a hint of sexy oak. Sweet, dense and primary on the palate, showing enticing floral lift and minerality to its dense red cherry flavor. Very fresh for 2009. Finishes juicy and gripping, with substantial fine-grained tannins and terrific length. This went into a shell in the glass and will probably require at least seven to eight years of cellaring to approach maturity.’ - Stephen Tanzer, Vinous, 93+/100 (Nov 2013)

Aldo Conterno Barolo Romirasco 2009
‘The 2009 Barolo Romirasco is an incredibly rich and powerful wine and by far the most elaborate of the bunch. Those oak-driven notes of spice and toasted nut will require many more years of bottle aging until they fully integrate, but the wine certainly shows the girth and consistency to bring it forward over time. Lingering notes of mocha, espresso, cola, dark spice, plum and dried blackberries complete the finish. Don’t even think of opening this bottle anytime soon. Anticipated maturity: 2018-2040.’ - Monica Larner, Wine Advocate, 96/100 (Jun 2013)

‘Intense and fragrant, sporting cherry, licorice, leather and spice aromas and flavors, with an underlying mineral element that melds with the tannins to leave a chalky sensation on the finish. Very harmonious and long. Best from 2016 through 2029.’ - Bruce Sanderson, Wine Spectator, 94/100 (Dec 2013)

‘One of the bigger wines of the year, the 2009 Barolo Ramirasco boasts stunning depth and richness. Layers of black fruit, tobacco, menthol, licorice and dried flowers literally explode from a Barolo that captivates all of the senses. The French oak is a bit noticeable at this stage, but there is more than enough richness in the glass to make me feel confident the wine will find its balance over time. In any event, opening a bottle of the 2009 before its tenth birthday is likely to be an exercise in futility. This is one of the most serious, powerful and structured wines of the year, not to mention a tremendous showing from Conterno.’ - Antonio Galloni, Vinous, 94+/100 May 2013)

Provenance

Private Client