2018 Castello dei Rampolla Vigna d'Alceo
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Tasting notes
The Castello dei Rampolla 2018 d'Alceo (85% Cabernet Sauvignon and 15% Petit Verdot) is elegant and generous, perhaps showing a little more ripeness and fullness overall. The 2018 vintage continues to show black and purple primary fruit; however, it's leaning into the next chapter of its life. This vintage is quite rich and succulent, qualities that are underlined by velvety tannins and baked plum. It's drinking very nicely at the moment, although you could wait longer if desired. There is a fil rouge (common thread) that connects all of these vintages. D'Alceo always shows a profound sense of deflation and etched sharpness.
Critic scores
James Suckling
Antonio Galloni, Vinous
More reviews and scores
Lots of blackcurrant and blackberry aromas follow through to a full body with firm tannins and a chewy finish. Lots of black licorice, aniseed and light asphalt. Lead pencil, too. Try after 2025.
The 2018 D'Alceo is a wild, exotic wine. Cabernet Sauvignon and Petit Verdot come together in a wine that is sumptuous, layered and exceptionally beautiful. Inky blue/purplish fruit, sage, mint, lavender and chocolate are some of the many notes that take shape. The 2018 was fermented in cement then aged 12 months in a combination of 500L tonneaux and barriques. This really blooms with time.