1999 Barolo Ginestra Casa Mate
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Tasting notes
The 1999 Barolo Ginestra Vigna Casa Matè is wonderfully alive and vivid. Menthol, tar, licorice, sweet herbs and plums are all laced together in this rich, large-scaled Barolo. All the elements are in place. Although the 1999 is gorgeous, there is no denying just how much Grasso has stepped up quality in just a few years. The 1999 is a slightly compact, mid-weight Ginestra built on energy, salinity and persistence, with fine-grained tannins and terrific balance, but not the visceral thrill that is the norm these days.
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Average Score
Stephen Tanzer, Vinous
Antonio Galloni, Vinous
More reviews and scores
There is more clay in the soil of the Casa Mate vineyard and, as the 1999 Barolo Casa Mate reveals, the wines have more concentration and structure than the Gavarini Vigna Chinera. Smoky wild cherry and strawberry aromas are followed by firmer and fleshier flavors, much warmth, and melting tannins on the finish and aftertaste. Anticipated maturity: 2005-2020. Various American importers, including Admirality Beverage Co., Portland, OR; tel. (503) 289-9600 and Wine For Everyone, Davie, FL tel. (954) 475-2611
Good deep red. Very ripe, musky aromas of raspberry, strawberry, flowers and smoke. Sweet, smooth and open in the mouth, but could use a bit more focus and verve. Nicely balanced if not exceptionally deep. Finishes with ripe, slightly dry-edged tannins.