Has there been any change to the quality this producer put out in recent years? I’ve seen it at reasonable prices(mid 30’s), but when researching it, many seem to view it as the poor stepsister of other wines from the area. Critics have liked the last few vintages, so I’m confused. Granted, it’s not a “wow” wine, but how does it compare to other entry level offerings?
I had the 08 and 10 in the last couple of years and thought it was good to very good. Nothing wrong with it. The 10 could use some bottle aging.
I drank a case of the 82. The last bottle was about 5 years ago and it was tremendous.
I’ve seen the suggestion from critics that they’re lifting their game, but for me, there are still many more interesting wines from smaller producers at the same or less money. That said, their wines are often reduced in price in supermarkets here, so occasionally a good deal is worth snaffling. When I’ve done that the experience hasn’t enthused me to change my perspective.
The base wine used to be a drink now, pleasant offering at a fairly low price. The more recent vintages appear to be more serious wines but still at good prices. I bought a bunch of the 11’s in liter bottles for low $30s. It’s a good wine that needs some time and could be outstanding in a few years.
It was owned by a bank from 1932 until it was sold in 2008 to the owner of Eataly:
http://www.palmbay.com/fontanafredda.htm
He’s the guy who bought Borgogno a few years earlier. You’d assume these owners would have higher ambitions.
The winery owns some top plots in Serralunga, so fingers crossed.
The liter bottles I think are mostly purchased fruit. The bottle I’m seeing is the striped bottle that mainly estate fruit.
Same striped bottle in liter size.
Looks like you are correct. When I see strange volumes, my mind automatically moves to the more ready to drink party wines.
Picked up a bottle out of curiosity to pair with Bucatini and meatballs tonight for dinner. Only $35 at Costco.
Will report back.
Decanted for four hours. Very open for business with a great nose that was giving up traditional Barolo notes of violets and road tar. Bright acidity and focused cherry on the palate. No noticeable tannins here, so I don’t think it is built for long term aging.
Good drink for $30-35 range while your big boys age.
Thanks Bill. This definitely sounds better that the comments on prior years. I’m picking up a few. It will be interesting to compare it with a few other entry level wines in 4 or 5 years. (Vietti’s Castiglione , Vajra’s Albe)