1996 Gaja, Langhe, Conteisa (RT97) Tonight the 1996 Conteisa is utterly stunning as cellaring has proven a dear friend. Nearly opaque deep ruby, the dollop of Barbera blended in has its affects, but there is an overall garnet cast to it. This profound vintage shows up in spades on the bouquet as powerful brooding red cherry, mineral driven raspberry compote, dried rose petal and hints of herbs reveal a power-driven persona. As this wine approaches 25 years since vintage, it shows a far younger and fresher than the 2005 Cappellano I tasted side-by-side with it. The palate texture evolves in the glass, showing depth and dimension with perfect balance, a magnificent vintage and wine for the team at the Gaja winery. Simply splendid! Drink now-2036+
