Alessandro E Gian Natale Fantino, Barolo, Vigna dei Dardi

Still drinking great after all these years. Ten years ago or so we did Barolo tastings and this one, although the cheapest rated the highest.

First time this wine has shown a brown tinge in the color and a slight whiff of butterscotch, both of which suggest some oxidation. But the mouth shows a good balance of red and black cherry fruit, a softened texture, rounded and drying tannin, and bright acidity. Overall, the wine is enjoyable by itself, and proved to be very good with most foods, including working surprisingly well with a spicy soup.

A fine example of how an aged Barolo becomes more enjoyable. Very dark red for a Barolo, just short of opaque. At 14 years old, has definitely improved. Nothing lean or harsh in the nose. The mouth entry is now smooth, openly fruity, and coating, versus grippy, astringent, and tightly wound. Much more texture and glide in the taste. Overall, the best this wine has ever been. Enjoyable now with food and by itself, but can be readily kept for …

Good, but not very complex. Light to medium on the palate with some floral notes to sccompany the smokey cherry.

Not as interesting on the nose as most barolo. Light to medium body with medium to high acidity and lighter in color than most of its age. Dark cherry fruit with a fair bit of earthiness and dried spices on the finish. The acidity intensified and fruit faded some over time.

Wine purchased at Bi-Rite about a year or two ago. Has rested in the cellar since. Ullage is good. Cork was intact, but took lots of elbow grease to extract it. Color was nice - not dark or light. Meniscus seems very reasonable in color. If color is any indication, this wine in good shape for maybe 5 years. Initial impressions on the nose include elements of nutmeg, licorice, citrus, tar, and dust. Flavors include all of the above, especially …

Drank this bottle with dinner at home. Tasted a bit "thin" to me. WIll be interesting to compare with older vintages.

RUSSK WSW@JIM's Brunello vs. Barolo BB. bottom tier

Cherry liquor, cigar smoke on the nose. Dark cherry and a little plum balanced with some earthiness and a little tar. Well balanced, smooth, nice resonating finish.

Not a bad bottle of wine. Goes well with Pasta dishes. No fireworks, but tastes ok and does the job it is intended to do.

RUSSK medium bodied gently sweet aromatics just okay

Nice light brick color. Lighter wine after 9 years (2003)…Medium to high alcohol level…Nice dark fruit, dark chocolate with some sense of Cigar…Beautiful long finish with fresh fruit and dry spices. Especially knowing that as always, I’ve got such a great deal for this wine from Art…Brilliant and elegant wine...Will look to buy more again.