2008 Barolo Vigna Cappella di Santo Stefano
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Tasting notes
Good full red. Subtly complex aromas of redcurrant, smoke, minerals and menthol. Classically dry and vibrant, with terrific lift and definition to the fine-grained red berry, licorice and mineral flavors. Little obvious sign of oak here. This impeccably fresh, suave midweight shows a youthfully medicinal character and outstanding rising length, with late hints of dried herbs and flowers. For a Barolo from a modernist, this is rather classic.
Critic scores
Average Score
Antonio Galloni, Vinous
Walter Speller, jancisrobinson.com
More reviews and scores
Quite dark crimson with some blue notes. Rather brutal raw notes on the nose. Not gentle or subtle! It may all calm down into something delightful eventually but at the moment it’s very aggressive. (JR)
Monforte d’Alba. Deep, concentrated ruby with very small orange rim. Sweet and almost a touch oxidative fruitcake, hence new sample requested: All sweet oak and rich, sweet fruit. Overworked. Less is more. (WS)
The 2008 Barolo Vigna Cappella di S. Stefano saturates the palate with layers of intensely perfumed dark red fruit. Flowers, mint and licorice appear later, adding considerable complexity. The Cappella di S. Stefano is suave, seductive and totally impeccable. Dazzling, expressive aromatics are a constant thread that is woven throughout. This is all polish and finesse, despite the full-bodied style.