Tasting Notes
Vinous 96+
Elegance and power come together in grand style in Vietti’s 2006 Barolo Riserva Villero. At times delicate while at other times a powerhouse, the 2006 captures all the seeming contradictions that make Nebbiolo such a great grape. Tasted alongside the other Vietti 2006s, the Villero shines. The aromas and flavors are all beautifully defined, but it is the wine’s overall sense of harmony that leaves the longest impression. Tar, pine and wild flowers are layered into the huge, balsamic-infused finish. The Villero is typically quite slow out of the gate and I will not be at all surprised if that is the case here as well. As for the rest of Vietti’s 2006s, I tasted them again, and, well, they are pretty special too.
Anticipated maturity: 2016-2036
Robert Parker 97
The last wine of the flight is the outstanding 2006 Barolo Riserva Villero. It literally bursts open to full force intensity and beauty. It’s a mind-blowing interpretation of the often austere and brooding Nebbiolo grape that shows abundant life and vigor. Dark leather, cured beef, pressed rose petal, candied fruit, prune, cola, dried herbs and crushed mineral emerge from the glass like an aromatic marching band. Anticipated maturity: 2016-2035. If forced to inhabit a desert island that only served the wines of a single producer, I would want Luca Currado to be that supplier. He excels at everything he does from his castle perch at the heart of Castiglione Falletto. Despite the difficult 2009 season, his wines remain extraordinary. In fact, they are among the best I tasted from the vintage. Importer: Dalla Terra Winery Direct, Napa, CA; tel. (707) 259-5405
Anticipated maturity: 2016-2035
