2010 Long Now
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Tasting notes
(a 50/50 combination of barbera from Tulin and nebbiolo from Vanotu, vinified separately and then blended at the last minute): Good deep red-ruby. Porty aromas of black cherry, blackberry, mocha and cocoa powder, lifted by a violet topnote. Dense, opulent and seamless, with fresh acidity and a strong violet character giving the middle palate a surprising light touch. A distinctly modern style of wine, and very well done. (This shows much more energy than did an unfinished sample of the 2011, which was more powerful, hugely tannic, and in an awkward roasted phase.)
Critic scores
Average Score
Stephen Tanzer, Vinous
Antonio Galloni, Vinous
More reviews and scores
Violets, mint, cinnamon, blackberries and blueberries inform the 2010 Long Now. In 2010 the Long Now is impeccably refined and nuanced, with less of the immediacy of the 2011, but with more than enough energy and vibrancy to sustain its intense black fruit. The 2010 could use another few years to come together, but it is striking, even today. This is another terrific 2010 from Giorgio Pelissero.
Given the personality of the year, I am not surprised to find the 2010 Long Now closed down. Over time some of the wine's inner silkiness and perfume begins to emerge, but only slightly. There is plenty of energy and focus in the glass, but like all of Pelissero's 2010s, the Long Now needs time. The superb energy and precision of the finish is promising for the future.
Given the personality of the year, I am not surprised to find the 2010 Long Now closed down. Over time some of the wine’s inner silkiness and perfume begins to emerge, but only slightly. There is plenty of energy and focus in the glass, but like all of Pelissero’s 2010s, the Long Now needs time. The superb energy and precision of the finish is promising for the future. Anticipated maturity: 2015-2025. Pelissero is without question one of the top-tier estates in Barbaresco. Every wine in this lineup is solid and well worth seeking out. In particular, the 2009 Barbareschi are some of the very finest wines I have ever tasted here. The management of the tannins – such a problem at other estates – was expertly handled. Pelissero’s 2010 Barbareschi had been bottled just before my visit and were too closed down to properly evaluate. Importer: Vinifera Imports, Ronkonkoma, NY; tel. (631) 467-5907