1997 La Ricolma
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Tasting notes
The 1997 La Ricolma shows the natural richness and volume of the warm year, but also a set of mature, tertiary aromas that suggest it is best enjoyed sooner rather than later. Dark red cherry, chocolate, new leather spice and dried flowers meld into the creamy, voluptuous finish. The 1997 will continue to drink well for at least a few more years, but I wouldn't push my luck beyond that. All things considered, the 1997 has aged quite well for a wine from young vines made by an estate that was just figuring things out with this wine at the time.
Critic scores
Average Score
Robert Parker
Antonio Galloni, Vinous
More reviews and scores
A mammothly constituted offering is the black/purple-colored 1997 La Ricolma (100% Merlot aged in 100% new French oak, and bottled with virtually no clarification). It is unctuously-textured, phenomenally-concentrated, and extraordinarily intense, with surreal levels of extract, glycerin, and richness. Its olfactory bombardment begins with scents of melted chocolate, roasted espresso, and oodles of black cherry and blackberry fruit. It is thick and phenomenally rich. However, despite its monstrous size, weight, and constitution, this wine is well-delineated, and remarkably refreshing to drink, although knocking off a bottle between two people might prove challenging. This sensational effort is a tour de force in winemaking. Anticipated maturity: 2003-2025. A Marc de Grazia Selection, various American importers, including Michael Skurnik, Syosset, NY; tel. (516) 677-9300, Vin Divino, Chicago, IL; tel. (773) 334-6700, and Estate Wines, Ltd., San Rafael, CA; tel. (415) 492-9411
Inky ruby-black color. Aromas of plums and chocolate-covered cherries, along with notes of vanilla and cinnamon and a freshness that recalls freshly pressed grapes. Quite powerful on entry, then potent and alcoholic, with low acidity contributing to the wine's sweet, viscous texture. This is so concentrated that it might best be drunk with a funnel. But it hasn't yet come into final focus. Very long on the aftertaste. A wine that does not fit into any conventional categories. San Giusto a Rentennano has made this merlot since 1993, but none of the previous efforts could possibly prepare one for this 1997. The ideal wine for the cellar of Arnold Schwarzenegger or Lou ("The Hulk") Ferrigno-assuming they can handle it.
About the producer
San Giusto a Rentennano is one of the leading producers in the Chianti Classico region. Its 100% Merlot Super Tuscan La Ricolma and 100% Sangiovese cuvée, Percarlo, are two of the most consistent and collected fine wines in Tuscany.