1989 Barolo Cascina Francia
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Tasting notes
Sadly, in 1989 Mother Nature was not kind to Conterno, as hail wreaked havoc on the vineyards. There was no Monfortino that year, and Conterno released just 4,000 bottles of the 1989 Barolo Cascina Francia. Leather, spices, tobacco and licorice are some of the nuances that emerge from this austere, powerful Barolo. In this context, next to a set of profound 1989s and Conterno's own 1990s, the wine suffers a bit, but it is still magical juice. At some point in the future, the wine's structural components are likely to dominate over the fruit, but that date appears to be well off in the future.
Critic scores
Average Score
Antonio Galloni, Vinous
Antonio Galloni, Wine Advocate
More reviews and scores
Sadly, in 1989 Mother Nature was not kind to Conterno, as hail wreaked havoc on the vines. There was no Monfortino that year, and Conterno released just 4,000 bottles of his 1989 Barolo Cascina Francia. Leather, spices, tobacco and licorice are some of the nuances that emerge from this austere, powerful Barolo. In this context, next to a set of profound 1989s and Conterno’s own 1990s, the wine suffers a bit, but it is still magical juice. At some point in the future, the wine’s structural components are likely to dominate over the fruit, but that date appears to be well off in the future. Anticipated maturity: 2010-2025.
About the producer
Giacomo Conterno is arguably Barolo’s most celebrated estate. While most famous for its Monfortino Riserva, the quality found in every bottling of Nebbiolo and Barbera at this address makes them a benchmark producer for both varieties.