1996 Barolo Monvigliero

Burlotto's 1996 Barolo Monvigliero presents a decidedly dark profile of fruit because of the cold growing season. At twenty years of age, the 1996 remains young, powerful and full of life. Time in bottle has helped the elements meld together nicely. Even so, the 1996 remains virile and imposing in style. With a little bit of air, the 1996 can be enjoyed now, but it has plenty of life ahead. Hints of orange peel, tobacco and spice add to the deeply expressive, exotic finish. Readers who own it should be thrilled. In 1996, the Monvigliero is an exotic, beguiling Barolo that emphasizes power over finesse. Part of that is the personality of the year, but the wines have also improved markedly over the last two decades.