1996 Barolo Cascina Francia Riserva

The 1996 Barolo Cascina Francia is a prototypical wine for the vintage. Hard as nails and completely forbidding when it was first released, the 1996 has developed into a stellar wine. A host of orange peel, iron, rose petal, melted road tar, licorice and plum notes give the 1996 its layers of aromatic nuance. Brooding and inward, the 1996 needs several hours of air to be at its best. Tasted again a day later, the 1996 started to soften and show a more delicate side of its personality. Well-stored bottles will drink well for 20-30 years, perhaps more.

I admit I was less enamored with the 1996 Barolo Cascina Francia. This wine was hard as nails when it was first released and remains unyielding. Perhaps I have had bad luck, but I am beginning to think that the 1996 may never fulfill its potential.

1996 Barolo Cascina Francia—Medium ruby. Although the nose offers attractive aromas of spices, flowers and tar, the very classic, structured 1996 continues to convey an impression of youth in its austere personality, revealing sensations of rich red fruit and mineral notes and what is certainly only the barest hint of its true potential.