Barbaresco Gallina Riserva La Spinetta di G. Rivetti 2004 (1.5L)

94 Points, Antonio Galloni, Vinous: "The 2004 Barbaresco Riserva Gallina (magnum) is beautiful. Sweet herbs, menthol, tobacco, cinnamon, plums and red cherries wrap around the palate in a super-sexy, luscious Barbaresco loaded with personality. Tasted from magnum, the 2004 Riserva has barely budged. Readers lucky enough to own the magnums can look forward to another decade plus of exceptional drinking. The 2004 recalls a period in La Spinetta' s history when the wines were oakier, but now, after some years in bottle, all of the elements have come together nicely. A burst of super-ripe, opulent fruit rounds out the perfumed finish in this dazzling Barbaresco from La Spinetta. (Drink between 2014-2024)" 10/13

96 Points, Monica Larner, Robert Parker's Wine Advocate: "This wine was tasted in a magnum. The 2004 Barbaresco Riserva Vigneto Gallina offers sheer delight and power. The fine intensity and pristine quality of the bouquet could make you think the wine is younger than it really is. Smoked ham, licorice, dried flowers, rosehip, anise seed and balsam notes all stand to attention. The wine has evolved gracefully these past years and promises to continue down its glorious path. Anticipated maturity: 2016-2035." 06/13

97 Points, James Suckling, JamesSuckling.com: "This is very racy and linear in a fantastic sense. It's racy and silky with a beautiful backbone of tannins and fresh acidity, but it's dense and sexy with all the dried-strawberry, mineral and cedar character you could hope for. Magnums only. A triumph." 10/14