Barolo Monfortino Riserva Giacomo Conterno 2010 (1.5L)

100 Points, Monica Larner, Robert Parker's Wine Advocate: "The 2010 Barolo Riserva Monfortino is a perfect wine and there are few things I am more sure of in this life. This is an extraordinary creation that bursts from the glass with a level of distinct intensity and elegance that is nothing short of breathtaking. The wine literally evokes an emotional and deeply visceral reaction thanks to the lasting impression it makes on your heart, mind and gut. This Barolo opens to a delicate garnet color that is brightened with crystalline luminosity. The bouquet offers an immediate curtain-raiser with chiseled aromas of wild berry, licorice, white truffle and tar. That explosive start is followed by a mounting crescendo of complexity and nuance. The wine is extremely silky and polished in terms of mouthfeel and this helps to underline its impressive persistence. Bravo" #231, 6/17.

98-100 Points, Antonio Galloni, Vinous: "It's always great to get a glimpse of Monfortino as it ages in barrel. The 2010 is shaping up to be a jewel of a wine. Sweet red cherries, rose petals, smoke, licorice and savory herbs open up in the glass, but it is the wine's statuesque, towering personality that stands out most. Layers of nuance continue to build in a crescendo of aromas, flavors and textures that dazzles. Firm, chalky tannins support the huge finish. Conterno told me the 2010 might get an extra year in barrel to tame the the tannins, so it may be a while before the 2010 sees the light of day. When it does, the 2010 will make an eloquent case for itself among the greatest Monfortinos ever made." 3/15.

99 Points, James Suckling: "This is one of the most balanced, harmonious Monfortinos I've ever tasted. Aromas of dried rose petals and oranges. It's full-bodied yet compacted and tight. Tannins are perfectly managed. All in harmony. This is from one of the latest harvests ever; it started October 29. So fabulous and so perfect now, why wait? But will age for decades." 10/16.