Piedmont
Piedmont, located in northwest Italy, is renowned for producing some of the world's most exquisite fine wines. With its breath-taking landscapes, diverse terroir, and a rich winemaking heritage, Piedmont offers a captivating range of wines that captivate the senses. The region is home to legendary vineyards and wineries that have gained global recognition for their exceptional quality.
One of the most famous vineyards in Piedmont is Gaja, a family-owned winery that has played a pivotal role in elevating the region's wines to international acclaim. Their wines, such as Barbaresco and Barolo, are synonymous with excellence and showcase the complexity and elegance of Piedmontese wines. Another esteemed vineyard is Vietti, known for its iconic Barolo wines that beautifully reflect the region's terroir and winemaking traditions.
Piedmont is renowned for its red wines, particularly Barolo and Barbaresco, both made from the Nebbiolo grape. Barolo is often referred to as the "King of Wines" due to its full-bodied structure, intense aromatics, and potential for aging. Notable vineyards like Bruno Giacosa, Giacomo Conterno, and Paolo Scavino craft outstanding Barolo wines that capture the essence of the region. Barbaresco, a neighboring appellation, offers equally exceptional wines with a slightly softer and more approachable character. Renowned vineyards such as Produttori del Barbaresco and Gaja produce remarkable Barbaresco wines that exemplify the region's winemaking prowess.
Piedmont is also famous for its white wine, Moscato d'Asti, a sweet and aromatic wine made from the Moscato grape. Producers such as Michele Chiarlo and Saracco offer delightful Moscato d'Asti wines that are loved for their fragrant bouquet and refreshing sweetness.
Additionally, the region produces other notable wines, including Barbera d'Alba, Dolcetto d'Alba, and Gavi. These wines exhibit unique characteristics that reflect the local terroir and grape varieties.
Piedmont's fine wines are a true expression of artistry and tradition, showcasing the region's commitment to excellence. Whether you're savoring a prestigious Barolo, an elegant Barbaresco, or a delightful Moscato d'Asti, Piedmont's wines offer a remarkable journey of flavors and a glimpse into the rich winemaking heritage of this captivating region.
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Piedmont
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(12x75cl) 2007Wine Advocate (96+)
The 2007 Barolo Cascina Francia is an unusual version of this benchmark wine. In 2007 Conterno decided against bottling his Monfortino. Conterno believes Nebbiolo can handle rain and humidity (hence his decision to make Monfortino in rainy years such as 1987 and 2002), but not drought. The result is a Cascina Francia that is unusually dark, rich and powerful. The floral, herbal notes that are typical in young Cascina Francia have been replaced by deeper notes of tar, smoke and licorice to match the layers of intense dark fruit. The 2007 is powerful and imposing from start to finish. It is going to be a fascinating Barolo to follow over the coming years and decades. Cascina Francia is often accessible for the first year or two after it has been bottled. That has not been my experience with the 2007. It seems already headed for a period of dormancy. Anticipated maturity: 2017-2037.Inc. TAX€3,919.16 -
(1x75cl) 2007Wine Advocate (96+)
The 2007 Barolo Cascina Francia is an unusual version of this benchmark wine. In 2007 Conterno decided against bottling his Monfortino. Conterno believes Nebbiolo can handle rain and humidity (hence his decision to make Monfortino in rainy years such as 1987 and 2002), but not drought. The result is a Cascina Francia that is unusually dark, rich and powerful. The floral, herbal notes that are typical in young Cascina Francia have been replaced by deeper notes of tar, smoke and licorice to match the layers of intense dark fruit. The 2007 is powerful and imposing from start to finish. It is going to be a fascinating Barolo to follow over the coming years and decades. Cascina Francia is often accessible for the first year or two after it has been bottled. That has not been my experience with the 2007. It seems already headed for a period of dormancy. Anticipated maturity: 2017-2037.Inc. TAX€391.33 -
(6x75cl) 2007Wine Advocate (96+)
The 2007 Barolo Cascina Francia is an unusual version of this benchmark wine. In 2007 Conterno decided against bottling his Monfortino. Conterno believes Nebbiolo can handle rain and humidity (hence his decision to make Monfortino in rainy years such as 1987 and 2002), but not drought. The result is a Cascina Francia that is unusually dark, rich and powerful. The floral, herbal notes that are typical in young Cascina Francia have been replaced by deeper notes of tar, smoke and licorice to match the layers of intense dark fruit. The 2007 is powerful and imposing from start to finish. It is going to be a fascinating Barolo to follow over the coming years and decades. Cascina Francia is often accessible for the first year or two after it has been bottled. That has not been my experience with the 2007. It seems already headed for a period of dormancy. Anticipated maturity: 2017-2037.Inc. TAX€1,995.59 -
(12x75cl) 2008James Suckling (96)
One of the best Cascina Francias in a long time. It shows aromas of melons and plums with hints of hazelnut and coca. Full body and dense with gorgeous silky tannins and an incredible finish. The texture is wonderful. Pure velvet. Chocolate and cedar. Orange peel. So long and beautiful. Love the finish. Very approachable now but better in four or five years.Inc. TAX€3,151.16 -
(1x150cl) 2008James Suckling (96)
One of the best Cascina Francias in a long time. It shows aromas of melons and plums with hints of hazelnut and coca. Full body and dense with gorgeous silky tannins and an incredible finish. The texture is wonderful. Pure velvet. Chocolate and cedar. Orange peel. So long and beautiful. Love the finish. Very approachable now but better in four or five years.Inc. TAX€832.39 -
Vinous (98+)
The 2010 Barolo Francia is an exotic, beguiling beauty. Lavender, sage, menthol, tobacco and dried rose petals are some of the notes that open up in the glass. Constantly changing in the glass, the 2010 is utterly captivating. The combination of super-expressive aromatics, pliant fruit and pulsating tannins is something to behold. It will be many years before the 2010 is ready to deliver the goods, but it is already utterly captivating from the very first taste. Readers should note that, because of new vineyard regulations, the Cascina Francia is now known simply as Francia. In 2010, the corks had already been printed by the time that decision was made, so the corks on the 2010 read 'Cascina Francia.'Inc. TAX€965.59 -
(6x75cl) 2010Vinous (98+)
The 2010 Barolo Francia is an exotic, beguiling beauty. Lavender, sage, menthol, tobacco and dried rose petals are some of the notes that open up in the glass. Constantly changing in the glass, the 2010 is utterly captivating. The combination of super-expressive aromatics, pliant fruit and pulsating tannins is something to behold. It will be many years before the 2010 is ready to deliver the goods, but it is already utterly captivating from the very first taste. Readers should note that, because of new vineyard regulations, the Cascina Francia is now known simply as Francia. In 2010, the corks had already been printed by the time that decision was made, so the corks on the 2010 read 'Cascina Francia.'Inc. TAX€3,202.38 -
(1x300cl) 2011James Suckling (98)
Glorious aromas of roses, whole white truffles, earth and raspberry. Dusty. Subtle rosemary and lemon grass too. Full-bodied, tight and structured. Yet it opens and caresses every inch of your palate. So gorgeous now to drink. No Monfortino in this year; so absolutely amazing because it all went in here. Wow. Drink or hold.Inc. TAX€1,621.02 -
James Suckling (98)
Glorious aromas of roses, whole white truffles, earth and raspberry. Dusty. Subtle rosemary and lemon grass too. Full-bodied, tight and structured. Yet it opens and caresses every inch of your palate. So gorgeous now to drink. No Monfortino in this year; so absolutely amazing because it all went in here. Wow. Drink or hold.Inc. TAX€1,396.54 -
(1x150cl) 2012James Suckling (98)
A gorgeous nose of orange peel, plums and light walnuts. Some wet earth. Full to medium body with a compacted center palate. A tight ball of ripe, fine tannins. Minerals and hot stones underneath. Serious structure. No Monfortino was made so it's all here. Better in 2022.Inc. TAX€614.60 -
(6x75cl) 2012James Suckling (98)
A gorgeous nose of orange peel, plums and light walnuts. Some wet earth. Full to medium body with a compacted center palate. A tight ball of ripe, fine tannins. Minerals and hot stones underneath. Serious structure. No Monfortino was made so it's all here. Better in 2022.Inc. TAX€1,627.19 -
(12x75cl) 2015Vinous (98)
The 2015 Barolo Francia is a soaring, regal wine endowed with tremendous intensity in all of its dimensions. The most reticent and inward of the 2015s, the Francia possesses superb textural density and persistence all the way through to the explosive finish. An immense, towering Barolo, the Francia is positively stellar. It is also going to require a number of years to be at its best. In recent years, the Conterno Barolo Francia has often been relatively accessible post bottling, the 2015 is far from that.Inc. TAX€4,748.77 -
Vinous (98)
The 2015 Barolo Francia is a soaring, regal wine endowed with tremendous intensity in all of its dimensions. The most reticent and inward of the 2015s, the Francia possesses superb textural density and persistence all the way through to the explosive finish. An immense, towering Barolo, the Francia is positively stellar. It is also going to require a number of years to be at its best. In recent years, the Conterno Barolo Francia has often been relatively accessible post bottling, the 2015 is far from that.Inc. TAX€564.79 -
Vinous (98)
The 2015 Barolo Francia is a soaring, regal wine endowed with tremendous intensity in all of its dimensions. The most reticent and inward of the 2015s, the Francia possesses superb textural density and persistence all the way through to the explosive finish. An immense, towering Barolo, the Francia is positively stellar. It is also going to require a number of years to be at its best. In recent years, the Conterno Barolo Francia has often been relatively accessible post bottling, the 2015 is far from that.Inc. TAX€1,563.59 -
Vinous (97)
Conterno’s 2016 Barolo Francia is effusive, with a real sense of expansiveness that gives the wine breadth. Sage, mint, cedar, tobacco and strong mineral accents complement a core of dark fruit in a Barolo of real gravitas. Just bottled a few months ago, the 2016 is going through a very rare period of approachability (in relative terms). It will almost certainly shut down within the next few months. Readers who are curious will want to taste it before that happens. In 2016, Roberto Conterno did not bottle his flagship Monfortino, all the casks were blended for the Barolo Francia.Inc. TAX€3,303.07 -
Vinous (97)
Conterno’s 2016 Barolo Francia is effusive, with a real sense of expansiveness that gives the wine breadth. Sage, mint, cedar, tobacco and strong mineral accents complement a core of dark fruit in a Barolo of real gravitas. Just bottled a few months ago, the 2016 is going through a very rare period of approachability (in relative terms). It will almost certainly shut down within the next few months. Readers who are curious will want to taste it before that happens. In 2016, Roberto Conterno did not bottle his flagship Monfortino, all the casks were blended for the Barolo Francia.Inc. TAX€1,666.54 -
Wine Advocate (97)
I tasted the Giacomo Conterno 2017 Barolo Francia shortly before bottling. Like Roberto Conterno's other wines from this controversial vintage, this wine shines with brilliant and unexpected purity and intensity that is harder to find in its peers. It shows a deep understanding of the potential of a warm growing season, and the Nebbiolo is supple, velvety and uncharacteristically exuberant (for a grape whose elegance starts famously with understatement). Francia in Serralunga d'Alba evokes power and profound depth, with black and purple fruit highlights, rusty nail, crème de cassis, grilled rosemary and reddish rock or baked terracotta. The wine carries its considerable fruit weight with grace, and at the end of the day, it offers a complete portrait of vintage, variety and vintner.Inc. TAX€485.92 -
Wine Advocate (97)
I tasted the Giacomo Conterno 2017 Barolo Francia shortly before bottling. Like Roberto Conterno's other wines from this controversial vintage, this wine shines with brilliant and unexpected purity and intensity that is harder to find in its peers. It shows a deep understanding of the potential of a warm growing season, and the Nebbiolo is supple, velvety and uncharacteristically exuberant (for a grape whose elegance starts famously with understatement). Francia in Serralunga d'Alba evokes power and profound depth, with black and purple fruit highlights, rusty nail, crème de cassis, grilled rosemary and reddish rock or baked terracotta. The wine carries its considerable fruit weight with grace, and at the end of the day, it offers a complete portrait of vintage, variety and vintner.Inc. TAX€1,363.02 -
(1x75cl) 2017Wine Advocate (97)
I tasted the Giacomo Conterno 2017 Barolo Francia shortly before bottling. Like Roberto Conterno's other wines from this controversial vintage, this wine shines with brilliant and unexpected purity and intensity that is harder to find in its peers. It shows a deep understanding of the potential of a warm growing season, and the Nebbiolo is supple, velvety and uncharacteristically exuberant (for a grape whose elegance starts famously with understatement). Francia in Serralunga d'Alba evokes power and profound depth, with black and purple fruit highlights, rusty nail, crème de cassis, grilled rosemary and reddish rock or baked terracotta. The wine carries its considerable fruit weight with grace, and at the end of the day, it offers a complete portrait of vintage, variety and vintner.Inc. TAX€429.24 -
Wine Advocate (97)
I tasted the Giacomo Conterno 2017 Barolo Francia shortly before bottling. Like Roberto Conterno's other wines from this controversial vintage, this wine shines with brilliant and unexpected purity and intensity that is harder to find in its peers. It shows a deep understanding of the potential of a warm growing season, and the Nebbiolo is supple, velvety and uncharacteristically exuberant (for a grape whose elegance starts famously with understatement). Francia in Serralunga d'Alba evokes power and profound depth, with black and purple fruit highlights, rusty nail, crème de cassis, grilled rosemary and reddish rock or baked terracotta. The wine carries its considerable fruit weight with grace, and at the end of the day, it offers a complete portrait of vintage, variety and vintner.Inc. TAX€1,106.14 -
The Wine Independent (96-98)
The 2018 Giacomo Conterno Barolo Francia is very densely concentrated with fine tannins but it is not revealing much yet as it is so young. When tasted in May 2022 it was due to be bottled the following month. It is deep ruby in color with perfumed violet and freesia aromas on the nose, with oak spice notes. The tannins are firm but beautifully refined as you would expect from this producer. At the moment, the wine is like a beautiful statue, immaculately carved and pristine but not revealing very much. Roberto Conterno felt this wine needed 18 months before approaching and that it will last for 40 years.Inc. TAX€367.12 -
The Wine Independent (96-98)
The 2018 Giacomo Conterno Barolo Francia is very densely concentrated with fine tannins but it is not revealing much yet as it is so young. When tasted in May 2022 it was due to be bottled the following month. It is deep ruby in color with perfumed violet and freesia aromas on the nose, with oak spice notes. The tannins are firm but beautifully refined as you would expect from this producer. At the moment, the wine is like a beautiful statue, immaculately carved and pristine but not revealing very much. Roberto Conterno felt this wine needed 18 months before approaching and that it will last for 40 years.Inc. TAX€1,066.62 -
The Wine Independent (96-98)
The 2018 Giacomo Conterno Barolo Francia is very densely concentrated with fine tannins but it is not revealing much yet as it is so young. When tasted in May 2022 it was due to be bottled the following month. It is deep ruby in color with perfumed violet and freesia aromas on the nose, with oak spice notes. The tannins are firm but beautifully refined as you would expect from this producer. At the moment, the wine is like a beautiful statue, immaculately carved and pristine but not revealing very much. Roberto Conterno felt this wine needed 18 months before approaching and that it will last for 40 years.Inc. TAX€1,180.54 -
Vinous (98)
The 2020 Barolo Francia is fascinating to taste next to the 2021. A substantial young Barolo, the 2020 offers notable mid-palate density and tons of pure explosive energy. Savory and mineral notes abound, but at this stage, the 2020 is a Barolo of fruit and texture. Practically seamless tannins pull it all together. I have a slight preference for the 2021, but it is neck and neck between these two great Barolos. A second bottle enjoyed in a local restaurant a few days after this tasting was every bit as memorable.Inc. TAX€459.52 -
Vinous (98)
The 2020 Barolo Francia is fascinating to taste next to the 2021. A substantial young Barolo, the 2020 offers notable mid-palate density and tons of pure explosive energy. Savory and mineral notes abound, but at this stage, the 2020 is a Barolo of fruit and texture. Practically seamless tannins pull it all together. I have a slight preference for the 2021, but it is neck and neck between these two great Barolos. A second bottle enjoyed in a local restaurant a few days after this tasting was every bit as memorable.Inc. TAX€961.02 -
Vinous (98)
The 2020 Barolo Francia is fascinating to taste next to the 2021. A substantial young Barolo, the 2020 offers notable mid-palate density and tons of pure explosive energy. Savory and mineral notes abound, but at this stage, the 2020 is a Barolo of fruit and texture. Practically seamless tannins pull it all together. I have a slight preference for the 2021, but it is neck and neck between these two great Barolos. A second bottle enjoyed in a local restaurant a few days after this tasting was every bit as memorable.Inc. TAX€1,684.54 -
Vinous (99)
The 2021 Barolo Francia is a vertical, explosive Barolo endowed with tons of energy. Bright acids and fine beams of tannin provide the framework for this striking young Barolo. All the elements are so well balanced. Time in the glass brings out an interplay of mineral-drenched energy, persistence and textural breadth. There's a lot of structure, and yet the tannins feel fine-grained and finessed. I especially admire its translucent energy. Magnificent.Inc. TAX€1,767.59 -
(1x75cl) 1982Vinous - Antonio Galloni (97)
The 1982 has long been one of my favorite Monfortinos. It still is, although each time I taste it, I think time is gaining the upper hand. The 1982 is vibrant and quite energetic in the glass. Its construction is more about linear intensity than textural breadth. Floral and spice notes appear with a bit of air, adding layers of dimension while expanding the finish. As great as the 1982 is, I would not push my luck too much further on aging.Inc. TAX€2,386.50 -
(1x75cl) 1997Vinous - Antonio Galloni (98)
The 1997 Barolo Riserva Monfortino has always been an unctuous, exotic wine. It is all that and more tonight. Layered and seamless in the glass, with no hard edges, the 1997 is one of the most opulent Monfortinos Giovanni Conterno ever made. I still remember tasting it in barrel, when it was so flamboyant. Time has tempered some of that richness, and yet the 1997 Monfortino is one of the wines that really shows the vintage at its most profound.Inc. TAX€1,983.70 -
(1x75cl) 1999Vinous - Antonio Galloni (99)
The 1999 Barolo Riserva Monfortino emerges from a vintage that was not well understood on release. It’s a powerful Barolo that continues the line of austere vintages like the 1996 before it. Rich and explosive on the palate, the 1999 offers a captivating mix of intense red fruit and complicating hints of dried herbs, flowers, iron and mint. It’s one of my favorite Monfortinos, and a great wine for the cellar.Inc. TAX€1,809.73
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(12x75cl) 2007
Wine Advocate (96+)
The 2007 Barolo Cascina Francia is an unusual version of this benchmark wine. In 2007 Conterno decided against bottling his Monfortino. Conterno believes Nebbiolo can handle rain and humidity (hence his decision to make Monfortino in rainy years such as 1987 and 2002), but not drought. The result is a Cascina Francia that is unusually dark, rich and powerful. The floral, herbal notes that are typical in young Cascina Francia have been replaced by deeper notes of tar, smoke and licorice to match the layers of intense dark fruit. The 2007 is powerful and imposing from start to finish. It is going to be a fascinating Barolo to follow over the coming years and decades. Cascina Francia is often accessible for the first year or two after it has been bottled. That has not been my experience with the 2007. It seems already headed for a period of dormancy. Anticipated maturity: 2017-2037.In Bond€3,220.00 -
(1x75cl) 2007
Wine Advocate (96+)
The 2007 Barolo Cascina Francia is an unusual version of this benchmark wine. In 2007 Conterno decided against bottling his Monfortino. Conterno believes Nebbiolo can handle rain and humidity (hence his decision to make Monfortino in rainy years such as 1987 and 2002), but not drought. The result is a Cascina Francia that is unusually dark, rich and powerful. The floral, herbal notes that are typical in young Cascina Francia have been replaced by deeper notes of tar, smoke and licorice to match the layers of intense dark fruit. The 2007 is powerful and imposing from start to finish. It is going to be a fascinating Barolo to follow over the coming years and decades. Cascina Francia is often accessible for the first year or two after it has been bottled. That has not been my experience with the 2007. It seems already headed for a period of dormancy. Anticipated maturity: 2017-2037.In Bond€323.00 -
(6x75cl) 2007
Wine Advocate (96+)
The 2007 Barolo Cascina Francia is an unusual version of this benchmark wine. In 2007 Conterno decided against bottling his Monfortino. Conterno believes Nebbiolo can handle rain and humidity (hence his decision to make Monfortino in rainy years such as 1987 and 2002), but not drought. The result is a Cascina Francia that is unusually dark, rich and powerful. The floral, herbal notes that are typical in young Cascina Francia have been replaced by deeper notes of tar, smoke and licorice to match the layers of intense dark fruit. The 2007 is powerful and imposing from start to finish. It is going to be a fascinating Barolo to follow over the coming years and decades. Cascina Francia is often accessible for the first year or two after it has been bottled. That has not been my experience with the 2007. It seems already headed for a period of dormancy. Anticipated maturity: 2017-2037.In Bond€1,640.00 -
(12x75cl) 2008
James Suckling (96)
One of the best Cascina Francias in a long time. It shows aromas of melons and plums with hints of hazelnut and coca. Full body and dense with gorgeous silky tannins and an incredible finish. The texture is wonderful. Pure velvet. Chocolate and cedar. Orange peel. So long and beautiful. Love the finish. Very approachable now but better in four or five years.In Bond€2,580.00 -
(1x150cl) 2008
James Suckling (96)
One of the best Cascina Francias in a long time. It shows aromas of melons and plums with hints of hazelnut and coca. Full body and dense with gorgeous silky tannins and an incredible finish. The texture is wonderful. Pure velvet. Chocolate and cedar. Orange peel. So long and beautiful. Love the finish. Very approachable now but better in four or five years.In Bond€686.00 -
Vinous (98+)
The 2010 Barolo Francia is an exotic, beguiling beauty. Lavender, sage, menthol, tobacco and dried rose petals are some of the notes that open up in the glass. Constantly changing in the glass, the 2010 is utterly captivating. The combination of super-expressive aromatics, pliant fruit and pulsating tannins is something to behold. It will be many years before the 2010 is ready to deliver the goods, but it is already utterly captivating from the very first taste. Readers should note that, because of new vineyard regulations, the Cascina Francia is now known simply as Francia. In 2010, the corks had already been printed by the time that decision was made, so the corks on the 2010 read 'Cascina Francia.'In Bond€797.00 -
(6x75cl) 2010
Vinous (98+)
The 2010 Barolo Francia is an exotic, beguiling beauty. Lavender, sage, menthol, tobacco and dried rose petals are some of the notes that open up in the glass. Constantly changing in the glass, the 2010 is utterly captivating. The combination of super-expressive aromatics, pliant fruit and pulsating tannins is something to behold. It will be many years before the 2010 is ready to deliver the goods, but it is already utterly captivating from the very first taste. Readers should note that, because of new vineyard regulations, the Cascina Francia is now known simply as Francia. In 2010, the corks had already been printed by the time that decision was made, so the corks on the 2010 read 'Cascina Francia.'In Bond€2,650.00 -
(1x300cl) 2011
James Suckling (98)
Glorious aromas of roses, whole white truffles, earth and raspberry. Dusty. Subtle rosemary and lemon grass too. Full-bodied, tight and structured. Yet it opens and caresses every inch of your palate. So gorgeous now to drink. No Monfortino in this year; so absolutely amazing because it all went in here. Wow. Drink or hold.In Bond€1,335.00 -
James Suckling (98)
Glorious aromas of roses, whole white truffles, earth and raspberry. Dusty. Subtle rosemary and lemon grass too. Full-bodied, tight and structured. Yet it opens and caresses every inch of your palate. So gorgeous now to drink. No Monfortino in this year; so absolutely amazing because it all went in here. Wow. Drink or hold.In Bond€1,140.00 -
(1x150cl) 2012
James Suckling (98)
A gorgeous nose of orange peel, plums and light walnuts. Some wet earth. Full to medium body with a compacted center palate. A tight ball of ripe, fine tannins. Minerals and hot stones underneath. Serious structure. No Monfortino was made so it's all here. Better in 2022.In Bond€506.00 -
(6x75cl) 2012
James Suckling (98)
A gorgeous nose of orange peel, plums and light walnuts. Some wet earth. Full to medium body with a compacted center palate. A tight ball of ripe, fine tannins. Minerals and hot stones underneath. Serious structure. No Monfortino was made so it's all here. Better in 2022.In Bond€1,333.00 -
(12x75cl) 2015
Vinous (98)
The 2015 Barolo Francia is a soaring, regal wine endowed with tremendous intensity in all of its dimensions. The most reticent and inward of the 2015s, the Francia possesses superb textural density and persistence all the way through to the explosive finish. An immense, towering Barolo, the Francia is positively stellar. It is also going to require a number of years to be at its best. In recent years, the Conterno Barolo Francia has often been relatively accessible post bottling, the 2015 is far from that.In Bond€3,920.00 -
Vinous (98)
The 2015 Barolo Francia is a soaring, regal wine endowed with tremendous intensity in all of its dimensions. The most reticent and inward of the 2015s, the Francia possesses superb textural density and persistence all the way through to the explosive finish. An immense, towering Barolo, the Francia is positively stellar. It is also going to require a number of years to be at its best. In recent years, the Conterno Barolo Francia has often been relatively accessible post bottling, the 2015 is far from that.In Bond€463.00 -
Vinous (98)
The 2015 Barolo Francia is a soaring, regal wine endowed with tremendous intensity in all of its dimensions. The most reticent and inward of the 2015s, the Francia possesses superb textural density and persistence all the way through to the explosive finish. An immense, towering Barolo, the Francia is positively stellar. It is also going to require a number of years to be at its best. In recent years, the Conterno Barolo Francia has often been relatively accessible post bottling, the 2015 is far from that.In Bond€1,280.00 -
Vinous (97)
Conterno’s 2016 Barolo Francia is effusive, with a real sense of expansiveness that gives the wine breadth. Sage, mint, cedar, tobacco and strong mineral accents complement a core of dark fruit in a Barolo of real gravitas. Just bottled a few months ago, the 2016 is going through a very rare period of approachability (in relative terms). It will almost certainly shut down within the next few months. Readers who are curious will want to taste it before that happens. In 2016, Roberto Conterno did not bottle his flagship Monfortino, all the casks were blended for the Barolo Francia.In Bond€2,705.00 -
Vinous (97)
Conterno’s 2016 Barolo Francia is effusive, with a real sense of expansiveness that gives the wine breadth. Sage, mint, cedar, tobacco and strong mineral accents complement a core of dark fruit in a Barolo of real gravitas. Just bottled a few months ago, the 2016 is going through a very rare period of approachability (in relative terms). It will almost certainly shut down within the next few months. Readers who are curious will want to taste it before that happens. In 2016, Roberto Conterno did not bottle his flagship Monfortino, all the casks were blended for the Barolo Francia.In Bond€1,365.00 -
Wine Advocate (97)
I tasted the Giacomo Conterno 2017 Barolo Francia shortly before bottling. Like Roberto Conterno's other wines from this controversial vintage, this wine shines with brilliant and unexpected purity and intensity that is harder to find in its peers. It shows a deep understanding of the potential of a warm growing season, and the Nebbiolo is supple, velvety and uncharacteristically exuberant (for a grape whose elegance starts famously with understatement). Francia in Serralunga d'Alba evokes power and profound depth, with black and purple fruit highlights, rusty nail, crème de cassis, grilled rosemary and reddish rock or baked terracotta. The wine carries its considerable fruit weight with grace, and at the end of the day, it offers a complete portrait of vintage, variety and vintner.In Bond€397.00 -
Wine Advocate (97)
I tasted the Giacomo Conterno 2017 Barolo Francia shortly before bottling. Like Roberto Conterno's other wines from this controversial vintage, this wine shines with brilliant and unexpected purity and intensity that is harder to find in its peers. It shows a deep understanding of the potential of a warm growing season, and the Nebbiolo is supple, velvety and uncharacteristically exuberant (for a grape whose elegance starts famously with understatement). Francia in Serralunga d'Alba evokes power and profound depth, with black and purple fruit highlights, rusty nail, crème de cassis, grilled rosemary and reddish rock or baked terracotta. The wine carries its considerable fruit weight with grace, and at the end of the day, it offers a complete portrait of vintage, variety and vintner.In Bond€1,120.00 -
(1x75cl) 2017
Wine Advocate (97)
I tasted the Giacomo Conterno 2017 Barolo Francia shortly before bottling. Like Roberto Conterno's other wines from this controversial vintage, this wine shines with brilliant and unexpected purity and intensity that is harder to find in its peers. It shows a deep understanding of the potential of a warm growing season, and the Nebbiolo is supple, velvety and uncharacteristically exuberant (for a grape whose elegance starts famously with understatement). Francia in Serralunga d'Alba evokes power and profound depth, with black and purple fruit highlights, rusty nail, crème de cassis, grilled rosemary and reddish rock or baked terracotta. The wine carries its considerable fruit weight with grace, and at the end of the day, it offers a complete portrait of vintage, variety and vintner.In Bond€354.00 -
Wine Advocate (97)
I tasted the Giacomo Conterno 2017 Barolo Francia shortly before bottling. Like Roberto Conterno's other wines from this controversial vintage, this wine shines with brilliant and unexpected purity and intensity that is harder to find in its peers. It shows a deep understanding of the potential of a warm growing season, and the Nebbiolo is supple, velvety and uncharacteristically exuberant (for a grape whose elegance starts famously with understatement). Francia in Serralunga d'Alba evokes power and profound depth, with black and purple fruit highlights, rusty nail, crème de cassis, grilled rosemary and reddish rock or baked terracotta. The wine carries its considerable fruit weight with grace, and at the end of the day, it offers a complete portrait of vintage, variety and vintner.In Bond€898.00 -
The Wine Independent (96-98)
The 2018 Giacomo Conterno Barolo Francia is very densely concentrated with fine tannins but it is not revealing much yet as it is so young. When tasted in May 2022 it was due to be bottled the following month. It is deep ruby in color with perfumed violet and freesia aromas on the nose, with oak spice notes. The tannins are firm but beautifully refined as you would expect from this producer. At the moment, the wine is like a beautiful statue, immaculately carved and pristine but not revealing very much. Roberto Conterno felt this wine needed 18 months before approaching and that it will last for 40 years.In Bond€298.00 -
The Wine Independent (96-98)
The 2018 Giacomo Conterno Barolo Francia is very densely concentrated with fine tannins but it is not revealing much yet as it is so young. When tasted in May 2022 it was due to be bottled the following month. It is deep ruby in color with perfumed violet and freesia aromas on the nose, with oak spice notes. The tannins are firm but beautifully refined as you would expect from this producer. At the moment, the wine is like a beautiful statue, immaculately carved and pristine but not revealing very much. Roberto Conterno felt this wine needed 18 months before approaching and that it will last for 40 years.In Bond€873.00 -
The Wine Independent (96-98)
The 2018 Giacomo Conterno Barolo Francia is very densely concentrated with fine tannins but it is not revealing much yet as it is so young. When tasted in May 2022 it was due to be bottled the following month. It is deep ruby in color with perfumed violet and freesia aromas on the nose, with oak spice notes. The tannins are firm but beautifully refined as you would expect from this producer. At the moment, the wine is like a beautiful statue, immaculately carved and pristine but not revealing very much. Roberto Conterno felt this wine needed 18 months before approaching and that it will last for 40 years.In Bond€960.00 -
Vinous (98)
The 2020 Barolo Francia is fascinating to taste next to the 2021. A substantial young Barolo, the 2020 offers notable mid-palate density and tons of pure explosive energy. Savory and mineral notes abound, but at this stage, the 2020 is a Barolo of fruit and texture. Practically seamless tannins pull it all together. I have a slight preference for the 2021, but it is neck and neck between these two great Barolos. A second bottle enjoyed in a local restaurant a few days after this tasting was every bit as memorable.In Bond€375.00 -
Vinous (98)
The 2020 Barolo Francia is fascinating to taste next to the 2021. A substantial young Barolo, the 2020 offers notable mid-palate density and tons of pure explosive energy. Savory and mineral notes abound, but at this stage, the 2020 is a Barolo of fruit and texture. Practically seamless tannins pull it all together. I have a slight preference for the 2021, but it is neck and neck between these two great Barolos. A second bottle enjoyed in a local restaurant a few days after this tasting was every bit as memorable.In Bond€785.00 -
Vinous (98)
The 2020 Barolo Francia is fascinating to taste next to the 2021. A substantial young Barolo, the 2020 offers notable mid-palate density and tons of pure explosive energy. Savory and mineral notes abound, but at this stage, the 2020 is a Barolo of fruit and texture. Practically seamless tannins pull it all together. I have a slight preference for the 2021, but it is neck and neck between these two great Barolos. A second bottle enjoyed in a local restaurant a few days after this tasting was every bit as memorable.In Bond€1,380.00 -
Vinous (99)
The 2021 Barolo Francia is a vertical, explosive Barolo endowed with tons of energy. Bright acids and fine beams of tannin provide the framework for this striking young Barolo. All the elements are so well balanced. Time in the glass brings out an interplay of mineral-drenched energy, persistence and textural breadth. There's a lot of structure, and yet the tannins feel fine-grained and finessed. I especially admire its translucent energy. Magnificent.In Bond€1,450.00 -
(1x75cl) 1982
Vinous - Antonio Galloni (97)
The 1982 has long been one of my favorite Monfortinos. It still is, although each time I taste it, I think time is gaining the upper hand. The 1982 is vibrant and quite energetic in the glass. Its construction is more about linear intensity than textural breadth. Floral and spice notes appear with a bit of air, adding layers of dimension while expanding the finish. As great as the 1982 is, I would not push my luck too much further on aging.In Bond€1,985.00 -
(1x75cl) 1997
Vinous - Antonio Galloni (98)
The 1997 Barolo Riserva Monfortino has always been an unctuous, exotic wine. It is all that and more tonight. Layered and seamless in the glass, with no hard edges, the 1997 is one of the most opulent Monfortinos Giovanni Conterno ever made. I still remember tasting it in barrel, when it was so flamboyant. Time has tempered some of that richness, and yet the 1997 Monfortino is one of the wines that really shows the vintage at its most profound.In Bond€1,650.00 -
(1x75cl) 1999
Vinous - Antonio Galloni (99)
The 1999 Barolo Riserva Monfortino emerges from a vintage that was not well understood on release. It’s a powerful Barolo that continues the line of austere vintages like the 1996 before it. Rich and explosive on the palate, the 1999 offers a captivating mix of intense red fruit and complicating hints of dried herbs, flowers, iron and mint. It’s one of my favorite Monfortinos, and a great wine for the cellar.In Bond€1,505.00
