2004 Barolo Otin Fiorin Pie Franco - Michet
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Tasting notes
The 2004 Barolo Piè Franco-Michet is very closed at first and needs quite a bit of air. Even so, a slight bit of funk never blows off and remains in the wine, masking the fruit. At this point, it's hard to tell if slight signs of oxidation are creeping in, or, if I suspect, a whiff of old cask has tainted the wine. Either way, the 2004 does not appear to be an especially refined version of this wine. My last two bottles have been disappointing.
More reviews and scores
Sadly, both 2004 Cappellano Barolos I opened for this tasting were oxidized, likely the result of poor handling at some point along the line. Fill levels on both bottles were at the top of the shoulder, but the labels, corks and capsules showed no signs of seepage or other damage, so it is hard to pinpoint the problem further. These wines are made in such small quantities that they are nearly impossible to find, so it is especially disappointing to see bottles that have been damaged. I will report back as soon as I have a chance to taste representative examples.
About the producer
Serralunga d’Alba’s Cappellano is one of Barolo’s most legendary producers, producing ultra-traditional styles of Nebbiolo. Made famous by Teobaldo and now in the hands of his son Augusto, the estate is best known for its Barolo Piè Franco, a wine from ungrafted vines in the Gabutti Cru.