AN UNEXPECTED SET OF ITALIAN TREATS - Washington, DC (3/12/2014)
A business dinner, much like so many others: brutal noise level, indifferent service, mixed results (at best) with our food and indefensible stem wear. Yet the wines brought sweet redemption, coincidentally in 6-year increments, and made it well worthwhile.
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1998 Oddero Barolo - Italy, Piedmont, Langhe, Barolo
I’m loving the approachability of the '98’s. This bottle was in prime drinking form, balanced and inviting, with classic Nebbiolo notes, though lacking the floral/perfumed aspect that a higher score would require. (91 pts.)
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2004 Valdicava Brunello di Montalcino - Italy, Tuscany, Montalcino, Brunello di Montalcino
Infanticide, but sure bodes well for the future. Extraordinarily tight despite a 3-hour decant, even to the last sip set aside until we paid the check. Very dark red in color, color with a confectionary nose of berries, sage and stewed fruit. A very earthy and tart palate of berries, smoked meats, clove and spice. Some floral aspects on the mid-palate, interestingly enough. A bit clipped on the finish but this should evolve well in the coming years. (94 pts.)
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2010 Tenuta San Guido Bolgheri Sassicaia Sassicaia - Italy, Tuscany, Bolgheri, Bolgheri Sassicaia
Pop 'n poured, but this wine never missed a beat despite its being so very young. A truly intoxicating nose that both teased and overwhelmed in alternating waves of aromatic tours de force. Complex, layered flavors of red fruits, beets, and baked raspberry. Lush and elegant, with great promise for the future. (95 pts.)
Yes, the last two need oodles of time, but I was delighted to experience them on a foreshadowing basis, and am pleased to confirm abundant signs of future glory on the horizon.
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