1999 Giacomo Conterno, Barolo Riserva, Monfortino (RT 99) Also SO’d for the day, there was less sediment in this bottle, making serving a far easier task. This behemoth has rounded out and the tannins have integrated and softened as it turns the corner of age 20. A juxt opposed style from Giacosa’s Le Rocche del Falletto, here the scale is intimidatingly massive, a requisite example of the “iron fist in a velvet glove” characterization. It hovers with weightlessness. The aromatics are bruising and masculine with dark notes of black stone fruit, sous bois, goudron and hints of anise. The palate is formidable, rich and decadent, showing a lushness that few Nebbiolo can ever achieve. A benchmark Barolo that with a few more years of cellaring should reach perfection. In two words: mind blowing! Drink now-2039+
