2006 La Ricolma
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The 2006 is a powerful, explosive Ricolma that, amazingly, could still use more time in bottle. Stylistically, it reminds me of the 2013 in its big frame and huge, imposing tannins. Still quite primary and dense, the 2006 is not in the mood to show much today. Explosive power and remarkable intensity suggest the 2006 has a very bright future. Today, though, the 2006 feels a bit blocked, as if it is somehow stuck in time.
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Antonio Galloni, Vinous
Antonio Galloni, Vinous
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The 2006 La Ricolma (Merlot) offers up plenty of dark varietal fruit intermingled with sweet scents of French oak, tar, menthol, leather and licorice. Despite its weighty, somewhat brooding personality, the wine reveals exceptional balance and tons of poise. The wine remains rather tannic and structured at this stage so a few years of cellaring would appear to be prudent. In the meantime, readers will have a hard time keeping their hands off this delicious Ricolma.
The 2006 La Ricolma (Merlot) offers up plenty of dark varietal fruit intermingled with sweet scents of French oak, tar, menthol, leather and licorice. Despite its weighty, somewhat brooding personality, the wine reveals exceptional balance and tons of poise. The wine remains rather tannic and structured at this stage so a few years of cellaring would appear to be prudent. In the meantime, readers will have a hard time keeping their hands off this delicious Ricolma. Anticipated maturity: 2011-2021. My tasting last year with proprietor Luca Martini di Cigala was an eye-opener. Aside from his humility – which always leaves a deep impression – I was simply blown away by the quality of the 2006s, which were in barrel at the time. His 2006 Percarlo was glorious that day, but it won’t be released until next year. In the meantime, these new releases should keep the estate’s fans, of which I am one, more than happy. A Marc de Grazia Selection, various American importers, including: de Grazia Imports; tel. (417) 732-4200; Michael Skurnik, Syosset, NY; (516) 677-9300, Estate Wines Ltd., San Rafael CA; (415) 492-9411, Giuliana Imports, Boulder CO; (303) 547-6343, Robert Houde Wines, Bensenville IL; (630) 422-1119
The 2006 La Ricolma (Merlot) offers up plenty of dark varietal fruit intermingled with sweet scents of French oak, tar, menthol, leather and licorice. Despite its weighty, somewhat brooding personality, the wine reveals exceptional balance and tons of poise. The wine remains rather tannic and structured at this stage so a few years of cellaring would appear to be prudent. In the meantime, readers will have a hard time keeping their hands off this delicious Ricolma. Anticipated maturity: 2011-2021. Aug 2009, www.robertparker.com
About the producer
San Giusto a Rentennano is one of the leading producers in the Chianti Classico region. Its 100% Merlot Super Tuscan La Ricolma and 100% Sangiovese cuvée, Percarlo, are two of the most consistent and collected fine wines in Tuscany.