Barbaresco Battle Royal

Barbaresco Battle Royal – Episode #527

August 26, 2008

Gary’s wine of choice is often the overlooked Barbaresco, today Gary tries 3 Barbaresco’s and sees what these awesome Italian red wines have to offer him!

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Comments on this episode(147) Leave a comment ›

“QOTD: Ceretto Zonchera (Barolo) 2004, first nebbiolo i’ve had and too …” by richardvinifera
“Barbaresco and Barolo Reservas must be aged for 5 years in oak. Not 4….” by chris
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Wines tasted in this episode:

2004 Icardi Barbaresco MontubertBarbaresco
2004 Paitin Barbaresco Sori PaitinBarbaresco
2005 Rocca Bric Ronchi BarbarescoBarbaresco

Links mentioned in todays episode.

The Thunder Cruise

147 Responses

August 26, 2008

Nick G
Number 1?
August 26, 2008

Matti
Watched this episode last week from Ustream! Lets have a look from this angle now. Gary, thanks for the sniffy snif wband, it arrived today!
August 26, 2008

luvgrapesqueezings
For you Gary:

http://www.youtube.com/profile?user=Fitzy01821
August 26, 2008

Susan
Gary & Mott, Barbaresco???? LOVE this varietal!!!! Thanks!!!!
August 26, 2008

Withnail
Looks awesome – time for a work break!
August 26, 2008

jason
top 5
will be back
yeah, italia
August 26, 2008

Jens
I had a Barbaresco 2004 from Cascina Barrichi today. The winegrower, Natale Simonetta, was serving it himself at a fine tasting here in Copenhagen. The wine: A little young but promising and in good balance. 90 RP-points.
August 26, 2008

KenP
Top 10!
August 26, 2008

Hinrgman
Back to Italy!!
Fantastic
August 26, 2008

MagnumGourmet
Top 10…Woo Hoo!!!!!!
August 26, 2008

Susan
Gary – FOUR wristbands on the arm????????????? WOW!?!?!?!? ok?!?!?!!?
August 26, 2008

Loweeel
woohoo top 15!
August 26, 2008

Susan
Yeah Gary, where’s that nice cheese you sell????? You need som-o-dat with this varietal!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
August 26, 2008

OzJeff
Hi Gary,

I did a vertical tasting of two Barbaresco wines from Giacosa Fratelli, both cost 21.50 EUR in Sep 06. Like you, I very much noticed strong really pushy tannins muddy fungal notes.

1998
Medium red/brown, slightly cloudy. Nice complex aromas of leather, raspberry & mud. Ripe to overripe dark warm fruit, ballistic tannins and puckery acid. Long. Dominated by the tannin with rich fruit in the background. Quite a nice wine. Probably overpriced for my tastes, although good value for a Piedmonte wine. 91pts.

1999
Medium red brown, also cloudy like the 98. Very nice aromas of rose, dark warm fruit, vanilla. Strong tannins, ripe fruit. Good length. A touch better nose than the 98 but more brutish. 89pts.
August 26, 2008

jason
ok here we go. i just opened last week a bottle of rinaldi, nebbiolo langhe, 04 and it was closed for business
color- dark cranberry with flashes of violet. nice core, surely no ink
nose – was displaying some nice red fruit, on the bright side. it also shows some faint flowers and hard dirt. it is not dirty, no wild boar shit, just some packed dirt. a little shy
palate- healthy acidity, pretty fruit showing more red than black fruit with notes of rasberry, sour cherry and fine tannins. for 23 bucks, i need to buy another one or 2. i would pull the next one out in 6 to 7 years. i need to buy their barolo too. this old school. it is not fat, not on viagra. just too closed
90+
August 26, 2008

Dr T from N. Carolina
QOTD: latest Nebbiolo Tasting note

1998 Nervi Gattinara Score:90
Strong anise over cedar nose upon opening. Black cherry up front, transforming into a long red cherry finish, with moderately strong tannins building along the way. No secondary flavors, but very intense primary ones, although some black raspberry notes are added to the finish after half an hour.

After being decanted for three hours, the nose is much lighter, black cherry over very light cedar. The flavors are tamer, and so are the tannins, which are almost silky. Black cherry and black berry upfront, and red cherry and raspberry in the now-slightly shorter finish. Should have opened only an hour before drinking, not three.
August 26, 2008

jahlove
QOTD: 2003 Parusso Barolo – The most approachable young Barolo I have ever tasted, no doubt due to the vintage. Drank this 1/2 bottle over the course of 3 hours, decanted. On the nose, dusty cellar smell, a little toast, and concentrated red fruits, which follow through on the palate. After time in the glass it becomes more floral. Cranberry, raspberry, but especially cherry liquer are beautiful in the mouth, finishing with a bitter dark chocolate. A little asphault sneaks in at the end. Depsite it’s uncharacteristic forwardness and easy approach, this has impeccable balance and structure. Biting acidity and drying tannins will hold this steady for many years to come.
August 26, 2008

Susan
Barbaresco with tabasco????? Hum…………………
August 26, 2008

MARK
2006 Feudo Arancio Nero d’Avola…not bad for 8 bones…nose of olive and cherry ..lots of red fruit taste and a thick mouth feel…went great with my lamb chops !
August 26, 2008

crank
I’m in.
August 26, 2008

Roberto
Hi GV,

actually had the Sori Paitin 04 last week and enjoyed it thoroughly… here is what I thought:

“Nice dark ruby color, on the nose very earthy and leafy, maybe a bit of cassis and some berries, very old world nose. Nice tannic attack, this should last a while, beautiful black fruit and mushrooms (?). Get a bit of fig as well.
Nice long finish that lingers beautifully” 92 (RR)
August 26, 2008

Kevin K
QOTD: It was a Barbaresco that I had in Italy last year. My wife said, “This tastes like raisins”. 84 pts.
August 26, 2008

Kdawg
I had a Barolo last night actually, here is my note on it:

1998 Ferdinando Principiano Barolo Boscareto – Italy, Piedmont, Langhe, Barolo (8/25/2008)
nose: wonderfully pungent nose of roasted herbs, sour cherry, lavender, and some wood smoke tones. wonderfully balanced and sweet aromatics that just linger in your nose

taste: nice bold flavors of sour cherry, roasted herbs, and tar with hints of lavender starting to creep in with delicious balance

overall: a really pretty Barolo with tart acidity and still firm tannins that provide a tasty roasted herb attack and tar based finish. The nose on this is the real winner as it is just sumptuous and slowly changes and reveals more and more (90 pts.)
August 26, 2008

Joe Tom
nice timing on the Piedmont feature…just had a Nebbiolo last night.

Rainoldo Nebbiolo 06 — cherry juice, subtle tobacco, a little olive, decent tannins, very drinkable.
good price too!!!

Panthro would be proud.
ez GV
August 26, 2008

Herm
Great show……I have a La Loggia Barolo in my wine rack…..I’ll let you know when I try it out…..I’ve read reviews on this wine and many people said it wasn’t a classic Barolo style…Have you tried it?
August 26, 2008

Scott EJ
With Fall coming up, I’ve been looking at some reds to pick up and being an Italian lover, this ep. is perfect.

QOTD: Oddly enough, my last Nebbiolo was that Traviglini Gatinnara you killed recently. My notes are that is was silky smooth and mouth-coating, solid fruits of dark cherry and ripe plum, very drinkable now & expansive with a good finish. 90+ pts.
August 26, 2008

hugh
Damilano Barolo 2001..nice red fruits, soft, some earthiness, nice with cheese, but not memorable…87
August 26, 2008

gotsha
QOTD…I had a Barola this past winter. Sorry, I forget the name and the tasting notes. I do remember it being a tough wine, ie I felt like I got slapped in the face after a few sips. The score for the phantom wine would be 88.

GV…Thanks for wearing a real shirt!!! We’ll make a man out of you yet.
August 26, 2008

Daniel Durham
Great show!!
August 26, 2008

Lawrence Leichtman
Actually it was an Il Mino Cantalupo a rosato from Nebbiolo that I had over the weekend and that I still have two bottles of. Rate it 87 points and that is high for me for a rosé. A little frizzante and good acid.
August 26, 2008

David Dadekian
QOTD: Can’t think of one, I know I’ve had them. Sad of me.
August 26, 2008

Tommasino de BoBo of WI
Excellent ep! heading to Piedmonte in October..
QOTD: Prunotto Barbaresco Bric Turot 2000 Complex aromas of blackberry, clove, plum and black licorice. Full-bodied, with big, velvety tannins and a long, rich finish. Decanted for 3 hours prior to enjoying….
August 26, 2008

John Farrin
QOTD: Oberto Barolo Vigneto Albarella 2000 on your recommendation, thank you.
Delicious, velvety mouth feel, really nice transition. Almost everything you would want in a mature wine. I wanted to and did really savor this bottle.
August 26, 2008

Tooch
2005 Mario Marengo Nebbiolo d’Alba Valmaggiore was the last bottle I tried. Scored it an 88; would have been a bit higher but I felt it was a bit thin for a 90+ type bottle of nebbiolo. Finish had some spice which I did like.
August 26, 2008

DaveyDonut
Yummy. I’m definitely more of a fan of Barolo than Barbaresco, but my most recent Nebbiolo was a Barbaresco:

QOTD: 2004 Montaribaldi Barbaresco Palazzina
Very nice price for a 2004 Barbaresco ($26). Wine was in glass for two and a half hours before note. Nose is very typical Nebbiolo with sour cranberries, graphite, a hit of licorice, and some pine needles. Mid palate shows plenty of sour red fruits and is very drying in the mouth. Finishes with a huge mouth coating dryness, but not necessarily very big tannins. The wine is so dry that it feels almost like there’s sediment sticking to the whole of my mouth, but this is not the case (there is no sediment). On day two the fruit is much more at the forefront throughout, including raspberry fruit roll up on the nose. The mid palate is now showing little balls of fruit, and the finish is still primarily dried up powder, but some of the fruit shows through. If there was more on the finish this could be special. A nice effort, and something that in a few years will likely prove to be a fine wine. (90 Points)

David
August 26, 2008

WineWoman
An armful of wristbands….

QOTD: Was eyeing up a 1998 Principiano Boscareto Barbaresco in the cellar but chose something else. Have not had a lot of Italian wine recently except for a dynamite Barbera. Did have the Travaglini Gattinara a while back. A nice food-friendly wine–don’t think it was the same vintage you trashed. Can’t remember the last Barolo I drank—therefore, I lack any tasting notes.
August 26, 2008

manonthemoon
decent show,

Not really a big fan of italians though

QOTD: a 2000 barolo at a tasting that was nice, but even though i love me some morels and mushroom can’t really say that dried cherry excites me enough to get into these wines at their price points.
August 26, 2008

Rossodio
QOTD: 2006 Ferrando Canavese La Torrazza

My note:
Some astringency on the nose, with cherry and burnt pinestraw; on the palate, sour cherry, a small amount of tannic grip, noticable acidity, and slight grassiness. The finish is dominated by the burnt pinestraw that was on the nose but hid underneath the palate. The finish is simple and about 5 seconds long. 84-85.
August 26, 2008

Derek F.
YAAA BOOOOY, great show Gary.

QOTD: Travaglini Gattinara which is 100% Nebbiolo, from the Piedmont region.
On the nose you get some red fruit, blackberry, plum with hints of vanilla and leather.

Full bodied wine with flavors of cherry, raspberry and spice, very long finish.
August 26, 2008

billyg
From May:

1997 Alessandro e Gian Natale Fantino Barolo Vigna dei Dardi

Raspberry with cassis on the nose. Raspberry, prune, cassis, and a hint of basil followed by sour cherry and black pepper. After 2.5 hours getting some tomato and celery in the mid-palate and finish. Long finish yet medium bodied. 88 Points.
August 26, 2008

Deano
Gary great episode.

QOTD:
-Haven’t had any that i can remember
August 26, 2008

Ryne Nelson
Gary, loved the schoolyard bully analogy. That really helped make the point!
August 26, 2008

sam
Again, the thundershow inspires and seduces! The wonderful, infinite world of wines is much more approachable thanks to GV and the gang.
August 26, 2008

Marshall
QOTD:2003 Boroli Barolo-89 pts.
Needs time to evolve. I suggest 24 hrs of decanting if you open it now. It was akward the first night, but on the second night the cherry fruit came through and it was much more balanced with the high acidity and tannins. Overall, I would have prefered more earth and structure from it, because it’s kind of one-dimensional, but it’s a tasty dimension of cherry pie.
August 26, 2008

Rick D
Great Italian show. Gotta give the Barolos and Barbarescos time to age. 2004 may be a little young. I have some 2001 Barolo that is going to hang in the wine fridge until 2011 or longer.

QOTD: 2001 Pio Cesare Barolo – very bold and delicious. Deep red fruit, hint of chocolate on the nose. Elegant flavors of plums, berries. Full bodied with smooth tannins on a long, 45 sec, delightful finish. Had for Christmas Eve dinner with the family. Allowed to breathe for several hours before serving. 96 points and a good QPR even at $70, but I gush.
August 26, 2008

Marc
QOTD: happen to be drinking a 2004 La Loggia Barola right now! A little thin, tart, tannic…doesn’t excite me at 12 bones. But works well with my world famous spaghetti sauce tonight!
August 26, 2008

ChezJim
GV – Love the Italian reds. I always seek out new Italian wines whenever I go to the wine shop. The key to Barbaresco Osso Bucco (sp?) has me planning a dinner.

QOTD: I’ve had 2 Barolos in the last month, but they were at a friend’s house and I didn’t copy down the names. Must have been the wine. Sorry. I did enjoy them.
August 26, 2008

LuvsChandon
Love the shout out to SS Chris!
August 26, 2008

Ken
QOTD: 2000 Luigi Pira Barolo Marenca – cherries, cloves, toast on nose; smooth big cherry, coffee and toast taste; 91 points
August 26, 2008

Michele
No Contest: a 1996 GIRIBALDI BAROLO (DOCG). I had it just last month as part of a five-course Italian dinner that I prepared for my special friend’s birthday. We also enjoyed a 2005 Vesevo Greco Di Tufo, and while both wines were home runs, the Giribaldi was definitely the star of the show. ‘96 was a superior vintage for the Piemonte, and this bottle had arrived at its zenith of sheer perfection. It came close to being orgasmic in the amount of pleasure it gave both of us. It made for a very happy birthday celebration indeed. Nebbiolo is my favorite grape, and this Giribaldi was the best expression of the Nebbiolo that I have ever had!
August 26, 2008

KVolk
not able to help with this one…..
August 26, 2008

NY Pete
FWIW … Gary Scores hates SS Chris.
August 26, 2008

Jay
That’s quite a move going with all 4 generations on one arm…
August 26, 2008

DAve A
what’s with the baby? ghez.

Diet Coke and lime – try it. if you don’t like the aftertaste, then Diet RC and lime. Diet RC is amazing!

Back to one glass? I thought it cool to have no rinsy rinse. smile.

Great show. very much made me want one…

Who’s your next guest?
How about more food matching?
QOTD: nope. not yet.
August 26, 2008

Tyler RM
QOTD – Barbaresco while I was in Chicago a few weeks ago. I can’t remember any more specifics, but it was mediocre.
August 26, 2008

Yvette W
QOTD: Haven’t had one yet. Still a young palette.

Cute baby in the beginning. What’s his name?

Great episode again Gary!
August 26, 2008

Devin. M
After many hours in front of the small screen I have finally viewed all 527 episodes of WLTV. Thanks Gary for the time and schooling. I am sad to say that I dont think I have had any Nebiolo based wines. Guess Ive found a excuse to run out and get one.
August 26, 2008

jcbirdscircle
NIce show Gary, love Barbaresco’s. Had some older vintages of Paitin that were very nice (89, 90, 91). Just wanted to say i’m sorry for the way Desean Jackson and Westbrook are gonna run all over your Jets on Thurs, Gary. Haha Good show, Thanks
August 26, 2008

Mike L
Sorry I haven’t been commenting. I’ve been watching via iTunes and forgetting to come back to droppa line!

QOTD: I’m house shopping, but I promise to create a small cellar and try some Barbaresco!
August 26, 2008

Kevin
QOTD: 2000 Fontana Fredda Barolo. Likable and interesting, with truffle and prune dominating the flavor profile and nose. Add a sniff of blackberry, a taste of high cacao chocolate – solid wine, but not my bag. 89
August 26, 2008

pete c
Good wines in Piemonte, Gary. Often smell of truffle but understandable since both have the same terroir.
August 26, 2008

Dr. Horowitz
Never had a Barbaresco that I’ve scored…

It seems like barbera wines are somewhat common in Napa/Sonoma, but I haven’t seen much nebbiolo action.
August 26, 2008

SoCal
QOTD: In the fourm section WAYD……Kdawg had a post of my trip to Chicago where were met Tim F and Leatherpalate for a 5 wine tasting of Barolos……good stuff

http://tv.winelibrary.com/forum/viewtopic.php?t=20813
August 26, 2008

aaronb
Had a 2001 Cabutto Vigna La Volta (Barolo) about 6 months ago. I didn’t record any tasting notes, but I seem to recall that I liked it a lot. Wine Spectator gave it 91 points. It’s my only nebbiolo so far.
August 26, 2008

ChiroGuyDC
QOTD: Never had any, unfortunately, but the PAL just keeps on expanding!!!

Great show, and congrats on the 9 medals!!!
August 26, 2008

Rani Haykal
Great Show!!!

QOTD: Its been well over a year since I last had an Italian wine and I really dont remember which one or any tasting notes.

–RH
August 26, 2008

Mark Fitzpatrick
Gary my man, I can see you ready to explode on the show openings, but if you have to chill it down a bit to get more peeps to stay tuned, it’s all good.

Mark
August 26, 2008

Mark Fitzpatrick
….and another great show. Really wanna try the 2004 Icardi Barbaresco Montubert.
August 26, 2008

JeremyQ
Nice episode GV .. another varietal to further explore.

QOTD: 2005 Produttori del Barbaresco Langhe Nebbiolo a few months back.
TN: Loved the 2004 so was tempted to try the 2005. Initial nose and taste was ackward, light somewhat disjointed and not very nice. Several friends who tasted it agreed it wasnt very good. Disappointed with this effort
August 26, 2008

John
“I love truffles so much, that I would eat anything with truffles on top… maybe even pig manure” … classic!

Great show Gary!
August 26, 2008

Robin C
QOTD: haven’t had a nebbiolo at home; just at wine tastings. We’ll be having a Brunello di Montalcino on Saturday. That’s the best I can do right now.
What were the medals for?
August 26, 2008

BobMac
QotD: The last Nebbiolo I had was from Cosentino. I loved it! I’ll give it a 94.
August 26, 2008

Bobby Bo
Great show! Sporting the Big Beat Navy shirt and thundering in with some great Peidmonte buys. Dont forget about the vintage, its all about 04 in Barbaresco and Barolo. I know the last Peidmonte wine I had was a Barbera, not bad, but love the Dolcettos more. All my Barolos are still waiting in the cellar, maybe next year.
August 26, 2008

amgryger
QOTD: Love nebbiolo. Just had a Langhe on Friday night. ‘05 Cascina Morassino. Excellent qpr.
August 26, 2008

JoeD.
QOTD: 2000 Aldo Conterno Cicala Barolo, and a 2004 La Spinetta Barbaresco Starderi. (same night, 2 weeks ago)

Tasting Notes:
2004 La Spinetta Barbaresco Starderi – Medium Body, Aromas of Chocolate, Raspberry, Licorice, Floral, and some nice oak showing. Finish was Very long but slightly bitter. I would say this needs a few more years in the cellar.

2000 Aldo Conterno Cicala Barolo – Medium body, with a nice burnt color. Strawberry, Rasberry, Truffles, and rose, but very acidic. Big Tannins and lots of acidity showing. Still needs time.

Slightly disappointed on both.
August 26, 2008

Bobby Bo
And the big sleeve means an Army win in 08. Go Army, Beat Navy!
August 26, 2008

pawncop
Very good show.

QOTD – Have only had one Nebbiolo, was at a Italian dinner with my daughter and son in law, cannot recall the name of the wine or the place but both were very good. I find if I do not write the notes immediately I cannot recall specifics. I did find it was well paired with a Tucscan beef medallion entree and grilled veggies.
August 26, 2008

Paul V
QOTD: Yet another varietal I need to try. Excellent!

Great show, keep up the great work
August 27, 2008

Phil G
qotd – i’m sorry to say it has been awhile (years) since i’ve had a nebbiolo based wine… not for long (i hope).
August 27, 2008

Mighty Oregon
QOTD: Most recent was a 2004 Sandrone ‘Valmaggiore’ Langhe Nebbiolo. Better than most entry level Barolo’s and Barbaresco’s in my opinion. Little new world. Big black fruit, nice round tannins, still a little stinky Italian thing going on aromatically. 91+.

Kellen Clemens = best back up in the league. Go Ducks!
August 27, 2008

medo
QOTD:

It was the 2003 Dezzani Barbaresco at a tasting in a wine shop. I found it quite decent and would score it aound 88/89 pts.
August 27, 2008

CB Lukens
GV – Good stuff. It’s been too long, and I often feel priced out. But your show today is begging me to revisit…
August 27, 2008

joris
my last nebiolo was al the years from the barollo from the wine house germano etore.
August 27, 2008

Sonnenuhr
Great show – just love these wines and they are great values.

QOTD: Two weeks ago I had a 1961 Borgogno Barolo Riserva: Without a doubt this was among the very best wines I’ve ever tasted. Port-like nose. Lots of fruit (cherry) left and a fresh, lively finish that just went on and on. Got another one in the Eurocave for 2011! Barolo and Barbaresco wines from good vintages are built to last.
August 27, 2008

M
I have 2005 and 2006 Serra Boella, Paitin, Barbera D’Alba in the cellar but I haven’t tried them yet. They were recommended to me.
August 27, 2008

Chris
Great show !

QOTD: The barbaresco 2004 from Gaja. It was really great! I would easily give it 94 pts.
August 27, 2008

LauraG
Back from vacation and trying to catch up on episodes…

QOTD: 2004 Pio Cesare Barolo. Powerful, full-bodied, massive blackberry, with earthy notes and a hint of wood. Very long finish, great balance. Still a bit young – probably best to lie down for a few years. Guessing it will be pretty long-lived.
August 27, 2008

LauraG
Forgot to score . 91 pts.
August 27, 2008

Bobby
The last nebbiolo I had was from Produttori del Barbaresco Langhe region 06′. It was a very nice value at 21 bones
August 27, 2008

George
Great show!!! Never tried a Barbaresco,will now. Keep the thunder coming!
August 27, 2008

Alfredhayes
Question OTD: umm.. What is this Nebbiollo you speak of? I’ll have to try one.

Quote OTD: “Where am I? Oh, in puckerville.”
August 27, 2008

PSPatrick
QOTD: Two weeks ago my girlfriend and I enjoyed a bottle of “Produttori del Barbaresco, Barbaresco Riserva Rabajà 2000″

We drank this bottle over two evenings. Initially, the nose and palate were dominated by the alcohol and it took the wine at least three hours in the decanter to get around the alcohol. On day two, however, the alcohol was not noticeable at all.

The wine showed nice floral characteristics on the nose and palate, with cherry, dark fruits and herbs. Over time the wine got more and more balanced and finally was very smooth the second evening, with fine tannins, good acidity and good length. You cold tell that this wine has great complexity, but I got the impression that it was unable to show its best characteristics that weekend. This could be a real beauty in a couple of years and I will not open another bottle for at least two years. For the time being: 89+ points.
August 27, 2008

Lawrence Leichtman
One question, when you noted the whiff of barnyard that blew off. Was that Brett?
August 27, 2008

JR Moreau
Get away from the corn syrup! Whole Foods has some pretty good and well priced sodas made from sugar cane. Replacement?

I love these wines. I’ve got 6 of the same type in my basement. I’m afraid to drink them since the last time I popped one, the tannins kicked my ass. I’m putting them away for a long time.

QOTD: I had a Barollo recently that was a solid 89 points. Pretty big body, round mouth feel and delicious fruit. Not as tannic as these monsters you reviewed.
August 27, 2008

Murso
While for about ten years, now, I’ve recommended Nebioli from the former corner of Barbaresco now delineated as simply ‘Langhe’, and drink ,in that realm for about $20 (Fontanabianca, Nada) the last I’d had of great import was 1990 Giacosa Barbaresco Riserva, Santo Stefano Red Label, about 3 years ago. An extrordinary(and legendary) wine, universally praised from a remarkable vintage, This dream was only realized through the generosity of a client visiting from out of town, who’d done the research to find that specific bottle was at a wonderfully unassuming little ristorante which I was familiar with. (Shout out , and mille grazie to Robert Fatica and Primo Vino in Cleveland’s Little Italy. While I’d worked at a few fancy places ‘up on the hill’, his tireless efforts and humble demeanor make him the top man on the hill! Incredible Italian wine library, and lots done in large format.). The wine was every bit as unctious, subtle, yet regally grande, as the food we had with it. I remember that, though it was only the two of us, that bottle was CRUSHED, and though we lingered over it’s intoxicatingly expansive nose, we could not resist the continual pull on our glasses. Minimum of 94-95 points.
August 27, 2008

wayno da wino
QOTD: The last two Nebbiolos I had were back in December 2003:
Prunotto Cannubi Barolo 1989 (29 bones)- “woody, weedy, gamey
black fruit flavors, OK”
Rinaldi Riserva Brunate Barolo 1989 (42 bones)- “woody, skanky,
tart, tannic black fruit flavors….$42 for THIS ?????”
August 27, 2008

Murso
And speaking of large format, back in ‘92 after my final day, ending six years at a prominent jazz club, I took my band mates to a remarkable performance at Oberlin, then returned to the club to enjoy a 3-Litre of 1970 Barolo, Borgogno, which had been available for some years. I couldn’t believe that all these doctors, yuppies and professionals weren’t prepared to take advantage of the ridiculously reasonable price for the taking. My employer was a major patron of the arts, and would endow that possibility for customers to really enjoy themselves- just as GV professes- share the love. Several glasses were poured for my formerly regular customers, and the whole place looked on as me and some art school friends laughed from deep in our hearts, and picked at calimari, mushrooms, and mussels. Living well, they say, is the best revenge.
August 27, 2008

Rick O'Shea
Love the poop!
August 27, 2008

Julian
Thanks for helping my customers to know what’s in the bottle once again! Bubble Brothers bring the Icardis’ wines into Ireland. Next time someone asks me what the Barbaresco’s like, I’ll show them this.
August 27, 2008

Sassodoro
QOTD. Last Nebbiolo-based wine was August 3 at home with a beef strogonoff, specifically 2001 Bruno Giacosa Nebbiolo d’Alba. Notes: very pale & brick-orange, almost rose, restrained nose of orange peel, Asian spice, and after that some tea & roses, palate is medium-bodied and elegantly smooth & supple, flavors of orange peel, cooked oranges, raspberry, notes of rose petals, tannins sneaking up in the finish, good long acidic finish. Rating: 4 (on a 7-point scale; for me that means better than meh, and probably worth buying, but not amazing. Probably roughly equivalent to your 88-point ratings.)
August 27, 2008

Landon
I think I’ve given up lurking.

QOTD: Fratelli Ferrero’s Langhe Nebbiolo. 89 points. Great plum and dark cherries but a little empty on the finish for me.
August 27, 2008

Raphael S
Great show topic. Some of my favorite wines have been Barbarescos and Barolos. Incredible wines.

QOTD: 1997 Moccagata Basarin. I had this a year ago with my wine novice bro, and even he could see the amazing quality, in fact he still talks about it. One of the best wines I’ve ever had.
August 27, 2008

Cohen
QODT:

Nebbiolo Reserva Privada, Valle de Guadalupe, Baja California, Mexico

Lots of ripe red and black fruit with spice notes like nutmeg, cloves and cinnamon; mouth, fruit and spices, with a little of tabacco, leather and walnut; round and with good structure, really long end. price: like $18USD here in Mexico $170 pesos. 91+ for me 8D
August 27, 2008

thkorent
qotd: paesi tuoi barolo 2003. amarena cherries and an artichoke component. Quite approachable already. 90+
August 27, 2008

AMM3RD
1998 Mauro Molino Barolo – 92 Points

This was outstanding, enjoyed with surf & turf. Dark red color, slight bricking around the edges. Muted nose. Wonderful flavors of sour red cherries. This wine is very impressive for the age, will last 3-5 years easy. Wonderful tannins that provide perfect balance. I’m looking for more. Recommended…AMM
August 27, 2008

VinoVixen
QOTD: 2000 Virna Barolo Cannubi Boschis ……unfortunately…it was CORKED!
August 27, 2008

laposte
QOTD:
1983 Luciano Sandrone. It is getting a little tired but then so am I, would rather drink a barolo old than young. This has been an outstanding wine.
August 27, 2008

IPBrian
Darn you Chris Mott…I thought I was caught up and you posted another episode and foiled me! Of course I love more shows so I am torn. Keep up the good work guys!

QOTD: Never had one…adding to my list.
August 27, 2008

Droolinkat
Cantina del Pino Barbaresco 2004 ($50). On the pour I immediately noticed the orange color and knew this one needed more time in the bottle. Regardless, the wine had a very light nose of strawberry jam, fresh maple syrup, and a floral component that I thought was gardenias but my fiance disagreed with. Very “un-Nebbiolo” but this is still a baby and not mature. This is evident on the palate as the tannins hit right away, drying out the hints of tart cherry and rasp-berry on the mid palate. I bought a bottle and do not plan on opening it for at least 5 years. Drinks at a mid to high 80’s now but has the potential to score well into the 90’s.
August 27, 2008

Sarno
Great show! Thanks for putting our baby on the show. Her name is Elyza and we just had to share her version of the Oak Monster.

QOTD: Still need to try one.
August 27, 2008

Brian
I see it only took the Army guys a week or so to catch on. What a fitting title. Dec. 6 will be a battle royal with Navy bringing home another victory. Should be a nice occasion to pop the cork on a great French Champagne. Let the battle begin. GO NAVY!!! BEAT ARMY!!!
August 27, 2008

BobbyTiger
The last Nebbiollo I had was……………………………..
Umm,…………Ok, never had one.
Given the price points, probably never will.
August 27, 2008

Paryb
QOTD: Last Nebbiolo I had, Was freakin awesome, I forget the name though…I still have the empty at home.

This looks so familiar, but I member seeing it now last week on Ustream!
August 27, 2008

Bsal
I’m having one as I watched the episode. It’s a Paolo Scavino 2001 I got at the wine library. I bought a case and this was the 6th bottle I’ve had. I love this wine. I would score it 92pts. Not sure why. I don’t think my pallet is that well trained but I like the flavors. I pick up good acidity and not a fruit bomb. I guess its old world. The finish last for 60 sec. +. On the nose I pick up rose pedal? But over all I would highly recommend this wine to everyone who likes a smooth nice drinkable wine.
August 27, 2008

Bsal
Oh. By the way that a barolo.
August 27, 2008

Jon-Paul Lenczuk
Great show, Gary!!

Answer to QOTD: Just had a terrific Nebbiolo from Paso Robles, Ca. this past weekend during a wine tasting with several good friends. The wine was a Martin & Weyrich, Nebbiolo Il Vecchio, 2003–incredible nose, terrific length, and great complexity!
August 27, 2008

Julie & Paul Humiston
QOTD: Last nebbiolo we had was La Ca’ Nova Langhe Nebbiolo 2004. We wrote: Orangey tint to the color. Nose: dark cherry with anise and caraway(!) Very dry, good with food (broccoli souffle with pink sauce). Taste is hard to nail down, but has a slightly bitter edge (in a good way). Score: 91.
August 27, 2008

JayZee
Nice show – Barbarescos are definitely not the mainstream wine.

QOTD: We had a 2001 Salvano Barbaresco that I gave 87 points. My notes say “Tar baby with some blackberries, okay mid-palate but weak finish. Could have been very good.”
August 27, 2008

Mike Poppa
Visited Wine Library in Springfield, NJ a couple of days ago. Very nice store. Great prices, beats the hell out of Westchester rip off prices. Google directions on how to get there were useless. Called the store from the Jersy Turnpike. Very helpful employees!
August 27, 2008

Leif erik Sundstrom
QOTD:: most recent Barbarescos
1996 Marchesi di Gresi Barbaresco Gaiun
1997 Giacosa Barbaresco
August 28, 2008

Dan Manu
Last Nebbiolo was the 2004 Longview `Black Crow` Nebbiolo, Adelaide Hills, South Australia. It was tannic and chalky which I really liked. Also had nice hints of sweet smoky oak and black cherries.
August 28, 2008

Jayhitek
You think the circulation in Gary’s arm is starting to get cut off from the all the wrist bands?
QOTD: Don’t know. But I did have a couple glasses of the Catena Melbac last night and it was delicious.
August 28, 2008

SpoiledinCalbyPinot
QOTD: Have not tasted Barbarello or Barbaresco yet. Will be trying
in future. Might one be included in the “secret” pack Thanksgiving?
August 28, 2008

W. Miree
Very good show! I love Nebbiolo based wines, but prefer Barolo over Barbaresco in general. In fact, Barolo wines are my favorites of all wines at this point in time.

QOTD: The last Nebbiolo wine I have had was August 12 at a 2004 Barolo tasting of 8 Barolos and one mystery wine that turned out to be a Gaja Barbaresco. The best of this tasting for me was a 2004 Pio Cesare Serralunga d’Alba. I gave it 93-94 points. My tasting notes: “Terrific! very full, rich aromas & flavors. Musty tobacco, rose petals, slight tar. Chewy flavors of rustic cherry and blackberry, with earthy overtones.”
My second favorite was a 2004 Einaudi Barolo “Costa Grimaldi,” which I gave 93 points.
My third favorite was a debut Barolo from perhaps Piedmont’s best Dolcetta producer, Pecchenino: it was a 2004 “Le Coste” from Monforte d’Alba, which I also gave 93 points.

Needless to say, it was a great tasting of Nebbiolo wines.
August 28, 2008

wannaBconnoisseur
Keep the italian wines coming!!

Q-It was over a month ago and I forget the name, sorry, however I do remember liking it. Had more Barbera and Dolcetto lately than Nebbiolo.
August 28, 2008

Richard Ritter
Great episode Gary. Nebbiolo-licious.

QOTD: Just had the Icardi 2004 not that long ago. I would have to agree with what you said, my score is about a 92+. Tasting notes, I don’t know…possibly a little flowery, mid-tannic level, medium + body, and beautiful finish.
August 29, 2008

YoungDave
QOTD: 2004 Batasiolo Barbaresco
August 29, 2008

Bart Van Hemelrijk
Hy, Gary,

I’m a Belgian importer of Italian wines with a special love for Piemonte. I appreciate that you tell the people what you realy think! Yes, good nebbiolo doesn’t need small barrels and the Albino Rocca is not as good as people think! The bigger the barrels, the bigger the wines made from nebbiolo! Proof: in the best terroir for complex Barolo with long aging capacity, Serralunga d’Alba, you notice much less French barriques and new wood than in La Morra or Barolo!

Try the barbaresco Valgrande from Ca’ del Baio (Mott, link it up!)! Finally got a tre bicchiere last year for the 2004, but in my opinion, they are at the top for the last 3-5 years! Nebbiolo as you like it, I’m sure. From Treiso, the most powerful Barbaresco’s usualy. Family business since 1880, one of the oldest. And the prices are more than fair.

One of my last tastings was Barolo however: Barrel samples from Giacomo Conterno Monfortino and Cascina Francia 2002 and 2003… OH YEAH!

All the best!
August 30, 2008

Kelly Goff
Hey Gary, love the baby oak monster! Adorable.

I have yet to have anything from the Nebbiollo, there just not enough time to get to everything…
August 31, 2008

Dan-o
GV – I seem to say this every comment – love the Barbarescos and the Piemonte.
QOTD – I recently drank a 2001 Damilano Barolo. This was very hot a few years back due to a WS high rating and a good price ($30). I thought that it exhibited decent aromatics, but was light on the tannins. Several months ago I had a 1999 Seghesio Barolo that was a barn-burner!
August 31, 2008

Karl Laczko
A region and variety I have neglected, I don’t recall ever having a Barbaresco.

QOTD – Antichi Poderi Dei Marchesi di Barolo 1967 Nebbiolo d’Alba. Full T-Ns can be found on Reign of Terroir, http://reignofterroir.com/2008/04/21/a-40-year-old-wine/ . I didn’t score it, due to it’s age and uniqueness, but I enjoyed it.
August 31, 2008

Sharon
Hi Gary, Chris Mott is correct about High Fructose Corn Syrup. It messes up your metabolism in a bad way.
QOTD: Right, the tar and roses nose is often seen in Nebbiolo. Recently bought a Vietti Nebbiolo which I vaguely recall tasting before and that tar and roses thing is really on point.
August 31, 2008

Jim in Atlanta
QOTD – This year I had a 1996 barolo that a friend from Italy gave me. I brought it to a wine dinner and it was excellent. I don’t remember the name, but it was better than I expected (about 90+).
September 1, 2008

RCFon
Gary,

Congrats and keep up doing this great show.

Last Nebbiolo (which, by the way, means cloudy in Italian) I had was the Vjara Langhe Nebiollo 2003. Very interesting wine, a dance of subtle floral, tar, manure aromas on the nose. Very silky and lasting on the mouth. I tasted recently a Barolo, Parusso 2003, extremely nice wine. No Barbaresco, yet. But it´s going to be a matter of time…

Regards from Brazil!
September 1, 2008

RCFon
Excuse me… nebbiolo means not exactly cloudy, but foggy…
September 1, 2008

JudeMurphy
I didn’t know it was a nebbiolo at first but I knew as soon as I got that distinctive leather taste.
Does nobody else get completely smacked in the face with leather when they taste nebbiolo??
It’s probably something everyone tastes but I’m the only one interpreting it as leather, actually.
It really tastes like the smell of fresh leather to me though!!
September 2, 2008

Oakmon's BF
QOTD: According to my notes I had a Barolo, a Barbaresco, and a Nebbiolo d’Alba all in July of 2008. My favorite was 2004 Rivata Barbaresco. My wife liked it too.
September 3, 2008

Daniel Schlossberg
great to see you rocking all four wrist bands. where can i get all 4, i am super jealous!
September 5, 2008

Russ J
QOTD: 2004 Correggia Roero Nebbiolo. Nice, solid dark fruit, tannins just a touch sweet. Very smooth.

So, GV when will a Roero appear on WLTV? More importantly, when will WL stock some Correggia wines?
September 6, 2008

Palmer
2003 Pio Cesare both the Barolo and the Barbaresco at a dinner in Montreal. I found both to be so dry, tannic and leathery that I had trouble finishing my glasses. I think I nursed my Barolo glass for about 2 and a half hours and it did open up to reveal a little fruit on the nose, but was still tough as hell on the palate – definitely gave me the knockout punch.
September 6, 2008

vinacull
QOTD: 2001 Villadoria Barolo. Favorably reviewed by both WE and WS. Color medium red with orange bricking, clear, no sediment. This has been referred to as full bodied, but seems more medium to me. Nose shows notable, pleasant varietal characteristics of sour cherry, tobacco, wet leaves, and some meaty rusticity. On the palate there is sour cherry, tobacco, earth. For the first hour it is tight and somewhat disjointed, with more acid and tannin showing, but after about three hours it relaxed and was really quite enjoyable, and even more so with bolognese. This really just needs some time and air to unwind, and it should be good for a few more years. Score 88. Value for this 7 yr old barolo is fabulous at just 18 dollars.
and one more because I purchased it at WL (no longer available):
1999 Lodovico e Virna Borgogno Barolo Cannubi Boschis. Color ruby garnet darkened with sediment. Beautiful evolved aromas of leather, fresh tobacco as well as smoke and a little cigarette, roses, and sour cherry. Largely the same transferring to palate, with an overall balanced presentation that included drying dusty tannins. Overall an excellent mildly aged Barolo that is drinking well now. Hats off to Ian Dorian for this reco, and I’m glad to have a few bottles to follow over the next 5-10 years. Score 90.
September 9, 2008

Eugene
nice show… Martin & Weyrich Nebbiolo, Paso Robles. Italian style wines, very interesting. Full of the light fruit, raspberries, strawberries at the beginning, somewhat light on the palate. also licorice and tobacco on midpalate and finish.
September 14, 2008

Alos Diallo
Hey bro I have not watched the show in a long time it’s great to see that your still doing great and that the show is still going on! A Gaja wine was the last one I had I think it was great 93+ points. Cheers your friend Alos
October 2, 2008

yowens
QOTD: The Gatiinara wth the weird shaped bottle. I cant remember anything about it though other than the bottle.
January 20, 2009

Dessert Wine Nerd
QOTD: Never had one! *sigh* However tonight I had my first ever Chianti and liked it quite a bit! Im trying, Im trying new wines!
September 7, 2009

chris
Barbaresco and Barolo Reservas must be aged for 5 years in oak. Not 4. Other than that I liked the show
November 19, 2009

richardvinifera
QOTD: Ceretto Zonchera (Barolo) 2004, first nebbiolo i’ve had and too tannic and tight for any flavour, lol!