The 1985 Barolo Ginestra exhibits aromas and flavors of melted asphalt, dried herbs, underbrush, and sweet black and red fruits, all infused with smoke. Full-bodied, with sweet tannin, outstanding vigor and richness, and a concentrated finish, this is a fully mature, lively, intense wine. This Barolo is fully mature, yet reveals no signs of decline and is capable of lasting for another 5-10 years (where well-stored). Clerico is one of Piedmont's modernist winemakers, but based on how this vintage has evolved, one could say that some of the criticism of the modern Piedmontese winemaking school (that suggests the wines do not age well) is off target. Importers: Vin Divino, Chicago, IL; tel. (773) 334-6700 and Michael Skurnik, Syosset, NY; tel. (516) 677-9300

Smells like anise-flavored grappa at first, turning tannic and powerful on the palate, but the raspberry and vanilla flavors emerge forcefully from the grip of tannin. Big enough to need until the turn of the century, but it has the power and complexity to win in the end. Needs cellaring until 1998 to 2000. 800 cases made.??–null??Region: Italy / Piedmont / Barolo Select to Add