1989 Barolo Bric del Fiasc

The 1989 Barolo Bric del Fiasc (3-liter) is still striking for its freshness. Some of that is a factor of the large format, but standard bottles have also develop very positively. Here we find a classic flavor profile of tobacco, herbs, spices, plums and licorice with the depth, muscle and concentration of the modern school. The 1989 is a touch more layered and aromatically intense than the 1990, with a little more length and overall complexity. Tar, smoke and licorice linger on an eternal finish.

The 1989 Barolo Bric del Fiasc (3-liter) is still striking for its freshness. Some of that is a factor of the large format, but standard bottles have also developed very positively. Here we find a classic flavor profile of tobacco, herbs, spices, plums and licorice with the depth, muscle and concentration of the modern school. The 1989 is a touch more layered and aromatically intense than the 1990, with an additional measure of length and overall complexity. Tar, smoke and licorice linger on an eternal finish. Anticipated maturity: 2012-2025. The 1989 and 1990 vintages find Enrico Scavino at a fascinating intersection between traditional and modern styles. Fermentations and macerations lasted roughly 12-14 days, while pumpovers and punchdowns were still performed manually. The malolactic fermentations were done mostly in small French oak barrels. The wines were aged first in French oak and then in larger casks, an approach similar to the one Scavino employs today. What comes through most in these wines is a decided commitment to low yields which is seen in the sheer concentration and depth of fruit.

What a joy it is to drink the awesome 1989 Bric del Fiasc. Served from a 3-liter bottle, it is a very complete, structured Barolo, with complex aromatics, expressive, vibrant layers of fruit, great length and an eternal finish. Amazingly it comes across as very fresh and I imagine it will drink beautifully for another 10-15 years perhaps more. A great effort.