2010 Guado de' Gemoli

The 2010 Bolgheri Superiore Guado de- Gemoli almost touches the impossible heights of its predecessor from the excellent 2009 vintage. It is my convinced impression that 2010 offers a very showy and flamboyant interpretation of this 80-20 Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot blend. The density is a bit deeper and the aromas are a tad brighter. Compared to the other wines in its blind flight, the Guado de- Gemoli appeared the darkest and most endowed with Indian spice, black soya, espresso and blackberry essence. Finely chiseled mineral tones of granite and smoke snap it back into immediate focus. Give it another ten years of cellar time. Anticipated maturity: 2018-2028. The moment of truth: The 2009 Bolgheri Superiore Guado de- Gemoli blew me away and I have been anxiously awaiting 2010. As soon as the samples arrived, I set up a series of blind flights pitting this special wine against some of the -Big Boys of Bolgheri-: Sassicaia, Ornellaia and Guado al Tasso to name a few. I am extremely pleased to report that my favorite underdog wine performed beautifully, thus confirming my positive impressions of this vineyard and the winemaking magic achieved by consulting enologist Emiliano Falsini. My honest belief is that Giovanni Chiappini and his family should focus on consistency (along the entire portfolio of products) to avoid any suspicion that their recent achievements are mere one-hit wonders. Importer: Lyra, LLC; www.lyrawine.com