Alcohol: 13.5%
Grape(s): Nebbiolo
Localization: Piedmont, Italy
Tasting Notes: Deep ruby red with garnet hues and a powerful, lingering nose. Rich and austere with great balance between the tannins and acidity.
98 Points - Robert Parker's Wine Advocate: Of these new Baroli from Conterno Fantino, the 2016 Barolo Ginestra Vigna Sorì Ginestra shows the most underlying power, linearity and determination. While the other wines are a little softer and richer, especially on the mid-palate, this wine is all muscle and brawn. With its 15% alcohol content, its abundant bouquet and tight structural presentation, you should count on an extra long drinking window. Wait to pull the cork after the 10-year mark. At this young stage, the bouquet presents layered aromas of red fruit, tar, spice, ferrous earth and candied orange peel. There are hints of mint, eucalyptus and campfire ash. All said and done, this is a 11,700-bottle release of majesty and beauty that will make a proud and important protagonist of any collector's cellar.
Food pairing: This can be enjoyed with red meat and game dishes. Excellent with rabbit.
The Domain: This classic Langhe winery, founded in 1982, testifies to the talent and vision of Claudio Conterno and his friend and partner, Guido Fantino, who styles the wines. French oak barriques and new wood marry Piedmont’s own, blockbuster structure, opulent, tightly knit texture, magnificent tannins and rich, layered flavors. Today, the property comprises 57 acres under vine. Soil composition is sand, silt, clay; gradient of slopes 20-35%, and vine age is 15-40 years. Conterno Fantino's initial nucleus is cru Ginestra: a historical one for Barolo, documented as far back as the 1800s. In 1989, Guido and Claudio acquired terrain from the nearby area of Bricco Bastia, within the commune of Monforte d'Alba, where they eventually built a state-of-the-art new winery inaugurated in 1994. This location is scenically set, dominating the most ancient section of Monforte and overlooked by the majestic sweep of the Alps. Conterno Fantino exclusively employs geothermal energy: less CO2, more respect for the environment.
