1985 Barolo Cascina Francia
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Tasting notes
The three 1985s were equally fascinating. The 1985 Barolo Cascina Francia Riserva more than compensated for that. It was magical. Intoxicating, heady aromatics melded seamlessly into ripe, candied fruit. Once again I was reminded of why the best 1985s are so pleasurable to drink today. Still, it was a privilege to taste all three Conterno Barolos in the last (official) vintage that the Cascina Francia Riserva was made.
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Robert Parker
Robert Parker
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The current releases from Conterno include the fabulous 1985 Barolo Cascina Francia Serralunga. It possesses the classic Nebbiolo nose of roses and tar, as well as masses of rich red and black fruits. Unctuous and intense, with spectacular fruit, it offers great fragrance and massive body to go along with its high extract and huge tannin. Conterno, whose wines I have followed since the mid-sixties, is unquestionably the quintessential traditionalist when it comes to Barolo. No concessions are made to modern day tastes. Consequently, his wines are among the most concentrated, as well as the most rustic and tannic. From time to time there have also been levels of volatile acidity that modern day technocrats would consider obscene, but which actually can add to the wine's complexity and character, up to a point. Because Giovanni Conterno is among the last to bottle his Barolos, I have reviewed his current and upcoming releases, including his 1987 and 1985 luxury cuvees of Barolo called Monfortino. I should note that Conterno's 1989 Barolo Cascina Francia has been bottled and may be released sooner than normal. Importer: Vin Divino, Chicago, IL.
The current releases from Conterno include the fabulous 1985 Barolo Cascina Francia Serralunga. It possesses the classic Nebbiolo nose of roses and tar, as well as masses of rich red and black fruits. Unctuous and intense, with spectacular fruit, it offers great fragrance and massive body to go along with its high extract and huge tannin. Apr 1994, www.robertparker.com
About the producer
Giacomo Conterno is arguably Barolo’s most celebrated estate. While most famous for its Monfortino Riserva, the quality found in every bottling of Nebbiolo and Barbera at this address makes them a benchmark producer for both varieties.