1996 Barolo Castelletto
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Tasting notes
The 1996 Barolo Castelletto, here in its first vintage, is green, vegetal and lacking in depth.
Critic scores
Average Score
Robert Parker
Stephen Tanzer, Vinous
More reviews and scores
The 1996 Barolo Castillero smells like an herb garden planted next to a roaring charcoal fire. There are copious amounts of cherry fruit, new saddle leather, and animal-like aromas. This is a more sauvage Barolo, with impeccable density, medium to full body, and gobs of spicy, cherry fruit flavors. It should drink well for 10-15 years. A Marc de Grazia Selection, various American importers, including Michael Skurnik, Syosset, NY; tel. (516) 677-9300, Vin Divino, Chicago, IL; tel. (773) 334-6700, and Estate Wines, Ltd., San Rafael, CA; tel. (415) 492-9411
Medium red. Spicy, aromatic nose of cherry, mint, flowers, tobacco and licorice, with a suggestion of high-toned wood. Juicy but tight and backward; the old barrel note recurs in the mouth. Conveys an impression of limited ripeness. Finishes quite tannic, with a note of menthol.