1997 Italy Retrospective Tasting Notes
Posted: Wednesday, December 05, 2007
These wines were tasted for the 1997 Italy Retrospective report in the Dec. 15, 2007, issue of Wine Spectator magazine.
| Wine | Score | Release Price | Current Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| TUA RITA Toscana Redigaffi 1997 | 100 | $100 | $100 |
| Very dark ruby color. Rich and decadent, with masses of blackberry and fresh black truffle aromas. Turns to tar and licorice. Full-bodied, with big, velvety tannins and a long, long finish. Super-rich and long. Powerful and layered. Superb. Perfect. Even better than when originally tasted. Drink now through 2017. 200 cases made. |
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| ROBERTO VOERZIO Barolo Brunate 1997 | 100 | $150 | $360 |
| This remains the legend. Very dark color ruby. Masses of crushed raspberry and blackberry on the nose. Lots of vanilla and violet, as well as hints of tangerine. Full-bodied, with ultrafine tannins and a dense, yet harmonious palate. It has lots going on. Wonderful. Hard not to drink now, but will improve for decades. Best after 2018. 275 cases made. |
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| DOMENICO CLERICO Barolo Ciabot Mentin Ginestra 1997 | 98 | $76 | $138 |
| Dark ruby, with a garnet edge. Violet, toasty oak, blackberry and plum. Full-bodied, with amazing fruit and super-ripe tannins. It's velvety and powerful. Still needs a lot of time. Spellbinding. Huge. Best after 2010. 350 cases made. |
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| DOMENICO CLERICO Barolo Percristina 1997 | 98 | $65 | $65 |
| Very dark ruby red. Gorgeous aromas of blackberry, wild strawberry, flowers and sandalwood. Full-bodied, with ultrarefined tannins and a long, long finish. Wonderfully balanced, with a beautiful texture. Proportioned just right. Still needs time. Gets better and better. Best after 2008. 75 cases made. |
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| ALDO CONTERNO Barolo Granbussia Riserva 1997 | 98 | $210 | $130 |
| Medium ruby color. Raisin, spice and cedar aromas turn to flowers, blackberry and cherry. Full-bodied, with masses of chewy tannins, yet they are velvety and long. Loads of character. Loads of richness. A massive wine. Full-throttle red. Best after 2010. 770 cases made. |
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| MARCHESI DE' FRESCOBALDI Brunello di Montalcino Castelgiocondo Ripe al Convento Riserva 1997 | 98 | $99 | $89 |
| Absolutely gorgeous nose, with plum, Indian spices and blackberry. Full-bodied, with lots of dark chocolate, spices and vanilla. This is so young. Wonderfully silky and refined. I always loved the mint, berry and spice character in this wine and the layers of fruit and fine tannins. Amazing. Best from 2009 through 2020. 2,000 cases made. |
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| GAJA Langhe Sorì San Lorenzo 1997 | 98 | $315 | $300 |
| Very dark ruby. Aromas of rose bush, black pepper and sliced plum. Full-bodied, with super-well-integrated tannins. They are big and rich, yet refined and polished. This still needs time to mellow. But what a wine. It keeps on changing in the glass, with loads of vanilla bean, fruit and herbs and then goes floral. Still needs time. Best after 2010. 800 cases made. |
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| LAMBORGHINI Umbria Campoleone 1997 | 98 | $40 | $184 |
| Black color. Fabulous nose of crushed blackberry, mineral and black licorice. Full-bodied, with an amazing texture. Like cashmere. Wonderful fruit as well. Everything is here. What a wine. Needs time. Still the best wine ever from here by a long way. Best after 2010. |
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| SIRO PACENTI Brunello di Montalcino 1997 | 98 | $45 | $139 |
| Fabulous aromas of blackberry, vanilla, chocolate and spices. Full-bodied, with supersilky tannins and loads of toasty oak, berry and chocolate character. This is very youthful and well structured. Give it some more time. Giancarlo Pacenti is a masterful winemaker. Best after 2009. 2,000 cases made. |
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| FATTORIA PETROLO Toscana Galatrona 1997 | 98 | $50 | $50 |
| Dark ruby. Opulent aromas of meat, berry, currant and raspberry, with hints of warm stones. Full-bodied, with ultrafine tannins, yet chewy and prevalent. Loads of fruit. Fresh and very young. This still needs time to mellow. A massive wine. The first of the great Galatrona. Pure Merlot magic. Best after 2011. 250 cases made. |
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| CASTELLO DEI RAMPOLLA Toscana Vigna d'Alceo 1997 | 98 | $85 | $121 |
| What a great Cabernet. Dark ruby red color. Intense aromas of blackberry and black truffle. Very pungent. Full-bodied, layered and caressing. Wonderful flavors of licorice, dark chocolate, meat and berry. Super long. Fabulous structure and length. Best after 2010. 1,000 cases made. |
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| PODERE SALICUTTI Brunello di Montalcino 1997 | 98 | $75 | $75 |
| Dark ruby color with a red edge. Superperfumed, with blackberry, licorice and light vanilla. Gorgeous and fresh. Full-bodied, with amazing fruit of currant, raspberry and hints of vanilla. Long and layered. So wonderful. The great Salicutti. Best from 2009 through 2018. Tasted twice, with consistent notes. 330 cases made. |
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| PAOLO SCAVINO Barolo Cannubi 1997 | 98 | $85 | $94 |
| Dark ruby red color. Very rich aromas of wild berry, plum and mushroom turning to grilled meat. Full-bodied, with supervelvety tannins and wonderful ripe fruit on the palate that gives you a strawberry, cherry and vanilla aftertaste. Long and complex. Youthful. Hard not to drink now. Best from 2009 through 2019. 40 cases made. |
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| VALDICAVA Brunello di Montalcino Madonna del Piano Riserva 1997 | 98 | $140 | $95 |
| This is a wine that has all to come. Loads of blackberry and dried fruits on the nose, with full body, supersilky tannins and a long, long finish. Layered and beautiful, with loads of fruit. Yet it is refined and caressing. So much flavor. This will only get better. Drink now through 2015. 1,500 cases made. |
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| ROBERTO VOERZIO Barolo Vecchie Vite dei Capalot e delle Brunate Riserva 1997 | 98 | $330 / 1.5L | $474 |
| Tasted from magnum. Dark color. Intense aromas of white truffle, meat and earth, but then turns to ultrarich fruit from blackberry to raspberry. Full-bodied, with a powerful palate of velvety tannins and lots of ripe fruit. Yet it's balanced and refined. Deft winemaking here. Best after 2010. 110 cases made. |
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| ALTESINO Brunello di Montalcino Montosoli 1997 | 97 | $89 | $134 |
| Dark ruby and red color. Blackberry, licorice and grilled meat aromas. Full-bodied, with layers of beautiful tannins and fresh ripe fruit and sliced mushroom. Very, very long. So powerful and rich, yet racy and beautiful. Still needs some time. Best after 2010. 2,200 cases made. |
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| ANTINORI Brunello di Montalcino Pian delle Vigne 1997 | 97 | $70 | $108 |
| Very rich and plummy, with lots of mineral and floral undertones. Full, fresh and very powerful, with big, yet silky tannins and a long aftertaste of cherry and spices. Very, very long. Still needs time. Best after 2009. 12,000 cases made. |
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| ANTINORI Toscana Solaia 1997 | 97 | $115 | $334 |
| Dark ruby red color. Currant, Christmas cake, mint and spices. Full-bodied, with ultrafine tannins and a long, long finish. This is balanced and refined. It's layered and beautiful. This is still tight and not giving much. A few more years will yield a lot. Cabernet Sauvignon and Sangiovese. Best after 2009. 7,000 cases made. |
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| CASANOVA DI NERI Brunello di Montalcino Cerretalto 1997 | 97 | $127 | $110 |
| Very ripe fruit, almost decadent aromas. Blackberry and currant. Mushroom and earth. Toasty oak. Full-bodied, very velvety and rich, with loads of fruit and very ripe tannins. Chewy and powerful. Youthful and slightly closed still. But what a palate. It's got all for the future. Best after 2009. 2,220 cases made. |
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| CASANUOVA DELLE CERBAIE Brunello di Montalcino Riserva 1997 | 97 | $125 | $125 |
| Dark black color. Absolutely stunning aromas of crushed blackberry, coffee, mineral, and chocolate. Full-bodied, with big chewy tannins and a long, long finish. This is still almost raw. It hasn't changed a bit. Amazing youth, power and complexity. Still needs time. Best after 2009. 175 cases made. |
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| CERETTO Barolo Bricco Rocche 1997 | 97 | $220 | $121 |
| Dark ruby-garnet. Very aromatic, with lots of floral, berry and spice character. Full-bodied, with a solid core of ripe fruit, supersilky tannins and a long, long finish. Massive, still needs a little more time in the bottle. One of the best ever from here. Best after 2009. 400 cases made. |
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| CIACCI PICCOLOMINI D'ARAGONA Brunello di Montalcino Vigna di Pianrosso 1997 | 97 | $60 | $110 |
| Very dark ruby-garnet. Intense aromas of ripe fruit, fresh porcini and toasty oak. Full-bodied, with fabulous texture of velvety and complex fruit character. Incredibly long. I have always loved this wine. I like it better than the riserva in 1997. Drink now through 2017. 2,500 cases made. |
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| DOMENICO CLERICO Barolo Pajana 1997 | 97 | $76 | $128 |
| Dark ruby, with a brick red edge. Fabulous aromas, with wild strawberry, roses, sandalwood and milk chocolate. Full-bodied, with big, velvety tannins and a long, long finish. This is just a baby. Even better than I remember. Best after 2012. 100 cases made. |
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| EREDI FULIGNI Brunello di Montalcino Riserva 1997 | 97 | $100 | $100 |
| Dark ruby color. Very complex aromas of crushed raspberry, violet and hints of toasty oak. Full-bodied, with very silky tannins and beautiful fresh mineral, licorice and blackberry character. Long and caressing. So fresh and balanced. Drink now through 2020. 670 cases made. |
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| GAJA Langhe Conteisa 1997 | 97 | $145 | $303 |
| Very dark ruby red. Intense and fresh aromas of blackberry, tar and lilac. Full-bodied, with big chewy tannins and masses of fruit that turn to porcini, forest floor and light coffee. Still needs time . A complete wine. Even better than I remember. Best after 2012. 1,300 cases made. |
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| GAJA Langhe Sorì Tildìn 1997 | 97 | $315 | $323 |
| Dark ruby red. Loads of porcini aromas and some raisin and spices. Then turns to flowers. Full-bodied, superconcentrated and supertannic. This is such a baby, but there's loads of everything here. From berry, vanilla to raspberry and blackberry. A wine to age for a very long time. Even better than I remember. Best after 2012. 800 cases made. |
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| BRUNO GIACOSA Barolo Le Rocche del Falletto 1997 | 97 | $161 | $159 |
| Dark ruby-red color. Masses of strawberry on the nose, with hints of Indian spices and light vanilla. Full-bodied, with soft and silky tannins and a long and caressing mouthfeel. Strawberry and cream. Very harmonious and refined. Best from 2009 through 2016. 1,200 cases made. |
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| SILVIO GRASSO Barolo Ciabot Manzoni 1997 | 97 | $67 | $67 |
| Very dark ruby. Wonderful aromas of blackberry, flowers, vanilla and Indian spices. Cloves. Full-bodied, with big velvety tannins and loads of fruit. This is just a baby at the moment. Big and complex, with amazing fruit and tannin structure. Still needs time. Even better than I remember. Best after 2010. 240 cases made. |
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| ISOLE E OLENA Cabernet Sauvignon Toscana Collezione de Marchi 1997 | 97 | $70 | $70 |
| Tasted from magnum. Dark ruby. Fabulous aromas of currant, mineral and mint. Roses too. Love the Cabernet character here. Full-bodied, with supersilky tannins yet chewy and powerful. This is still a baby. I am speechless. Like I tasted it yesterday. Best after 2012. 600 cases made. |
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| LE MACCHIOLE Toscana Messorio 1997 | 97 | $85 | $397 |
| Very dark color ruby. Fantastic aromas of crushed berry, fresh herbs, earth, meat and licorice. Full-bodied, with ultravelvety tannins and a long, long finish. Wonderful texture to this Merlot. A long life ahead of it, but why wait? Drink now through 2017. |
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| VIETTI Barolo Villero Riserva 1997 | 97 | $150 | $150 |
| Blockbuster. Ruby-garnet color with a brick-red hue. Aromas of ripe berry, almost prune, with coffee and mahogany, turning to berry and plum. Full-bodied, with firm chewy tannins and a long plum, smoke and spicy aftertaste. Giant wine. This still needs lots of time. Best after 2010. 350 cases made. |
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| GIANFRANCO ALESSANDRIA Barolo San Giovanni 1997 | 96 | $65 | $65 |
| Loads of blackberry, spices and toasty oak. Full, round tannins. Medium chewy. Powerful finish. This is still very young and rich. Masses of coffee, prune and dried fruits on the palate. This is superpowerful. Best after 2009. 280 cases made. |
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| TENIMENTI LUIGI D'ALESSANDRO Syrah Toscana Podere Il Bosco 1997 | 96 | $63 | $63 |
| Dark colored ruby. Very intense aromas of raisin, black pepper and game follow through to a full body, with lots of fruit and a firm, silky finish. Chocolate and meat in the aftertaste. Still needs time. Best after 2009. 1,750 cases made. |
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| ALLEGRINI Verona La Poja 1997 | 96 | $75 | $75 |
| Very dark color. Powerful aromas of blackberry, currant and dark chocolate. Spices too. Full-bodied, with big juicy tannins and a long, long finish. This is a blockbuster still. Stylish and supercharged. Give it a little more time. Best after 2011. 1,500 cases made. |
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| ANTINORI Bolgheri Superiore Guado al Tasso Tenuta Belvedere 1997 | 96 | $52 | $100 |
| Dark ruby red. Intense aromas of currant, flowers and leather. Opulent. Full-bodied, with supervelvety tannins and powerful fruit. Layered and beautiful on the palate. This has a long life ahead of it. I would still give it a few more years. Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot and Syrah. Best after 2009. |
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| CASTELLO BANFI Brunello di Montalcino Poggio all'Oro Riserva 1997 | 96 | $125 | $97 |
| Dark ruby red. Aromas of blackberry, dried flowers and cherry. Very intense and concentrated nose. Full-bodied, with velvety tannins and a long flavorful finish. Lots of light vanilla and crushed dark fruits on the finish. Solid now, but better with age. Best after 2010. 5,000 cases made. |
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| CAPARZO Brunello di Montalcino Riserva 1997 | 96 | $70 | $64 |
| Dark ruby, with some garnet tones. Aromas of pure fruit, with plum, blackberry, melon and cherry. Just a hint of dried flowers. Full-bodied, with layers of silky and refined tannins. It's so caressing and refined. It goes on for minutes. Subtle power. Drink now. 600 cases made. |
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| CASANUOVA DELLE CERBAIE Brunello di Montalcino 1997 | 96 | $48 | $48 |
| Dark ruby red. Very rich and intense aromas of blackberry, spices and plum. Full-bodied, with seamless tannins and a wonderful texture. It lasts minutes on the palate. So much flavor, yet subtle and complex. Glorious wine. Wait. Best after 2009. 1,780 cases made. |
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| GIACOMO CONTERNO Barolo Monfortino Riserva 1997 | 96 | $270 | $282 |
| The standard-bearer for Barolo. Medium-dark ruby-garnet. Rose petals, mushroom and slightly cooked red fruit. Some earth. Full-bodied, with big, caressing tannins. This is mouthfilling. Touches all of your taste buds. Complex flavors of plum, orange peel and chocolate. Very long. Why wait? Drink now. 750 cases made. |
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| FORADORI Teroldego Rotaliano Granato 1997 | 96 | $50 | $50 |
| Even better than I remember. Still very ruby, with a black center. It's rich with berry, tar and black licorice aromas and hints of mint and spice. Full-bodied. Tannins are polished and refined, giving the wine a silky texture. Long and flavorful yet subtle. It's just beginning to be ready but I would give it a few more years. Best after 2009. |
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| MARCHESI DE' FRESCOBALDI Brunello di Montalcino Castelgiocondo 1997 | 96 | $62 | $84 |
| Dark ruby-garnet. Decadent aromas of blackberry, mushroom and grilled meat. Hints of dried candied fruit. Full and supersilky, with seductive, opulent fruit character. It's so long and caressing. A thoroughly gorgeous bottle. Drink now through 2017. 12,000 cases made. |
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| MARCHESI DE' FRESCOBALDI Merlot Toscana Castelgiocondo Lamaione 1997 | 96 | $55 | $79 |
| Dark ruby color, with hints of brick red on the rim. Beautiful aromas of blackberry, violet and fresh porcini. Full-bodied, with round and velvety tannins and a long, long finish. Racy and refined. Beautiful texture. A fabulous finish that lasts for minutes. Drink now through 2015. 2,800 cases made. |
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| SILVIO GRASSO Barolo Bricco Luciani 1997 | 96 | $60 | $60 |
| Tasted from magnum. Dark ruby red color. Fabulous aromas of ripe red fruit and cloves and all sorts of Indian spices. Full-bodied, with gorgeous fruit and wonderfully silky tannins. Complex and flavorful on the finish. It delivers a full palette of character. Even better than I remember. Drink now. 450 cases made. |
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| LISINI Brunello di Montalcino Ugolaia 1997 | 96 | $99 | $119 |
| Dark ruby-garnet. Intense aromas of blackberry and grilled meat. Green and sweet tobacco. Full-bodied, with big and round tannins and a long, caressing finish. Very concentrated. Needs time still to mellow. Best after 2009. 10,000 cases made. |
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| MASSOLINO Barolo Vigna Rionda Riserva 1997 | 96 | $70 | $70 |
| Deep ruby-garnet. Plum, roses and tar on the nose. Opulent. Full-bodied, with loads of fruit and a velvety texture. It shows lots and lots of plum, coffee and vanilla bean character. Very, very long in the mouth. Fabulous. Best after 2010. 900 cases made. |
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| TENUTA DELL'ORNELLAIA Toscana Masseto 1997 | 96 | $240 | $605 |
| Great dark color. Intense aromas of ripe currant, prune, dried fruits and fresh rosemary. Loads of fresh sage and other herbs. Full-bodied, with beautiful tannins. Decadent, yet wonderfully caressing. Fabulous opulence here. Merlot. Drink now through 2018. 2,500 cases made. |
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| PIANCORNELLO Brunello di Montalcino 1997 | 96 | $60 | $60 |
| Impressive dark ruby color. Supersubtle yet complex aromas of blackberry, coffee, mineral and hints of new oak. Full body, yet very silky texture, with smoky blackberry and fresh plum flavors. Wonderfully caressing on the finish. This will improve for many years to come, but why wait? Drink now through 2020. 650 cases made. |
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| POGGIO AL SOLE Chianti Classico Casasilia 1997 | 96 | $NA | $NA |
| Dark color ruby, with a garnet edge. Great nose of crushed raspberry and cherry, with hints of fresh porcini. Full-bodied, with chewy tannins and lots of berry, mineral and cherry character. Long and rich. So youthful and impressive. If you ever thought Chianti Classico doesn't age, try this. Best from 2009 through 2019. 875 cases made. |
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| CASTELLO ROMITORIO Brunello di Montalcino Riserva 1997 | 96 | $75 | $75 |
| Dark ruby, with a hint of red on the edge. Wow. Amazing nose of blackberry, cherry and spices. Licorice and dried fruits. Full-bodied and powerful, with incredible fruit concentration and vanilla oak character. Goes on and on. Best after 2009. 555 cases made. |
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| LUCIANO SANDRONE Barolo Cannubi Boschis 1997 | 96 | $112 | $187 |
| Medium ruby red color. Very opulent aromas of plum, roses and spice. Full-bodied, with exotic fruit flavors and layers of silky tannins. Amazing fruit. Breathtaking. Hard not to drink now. Even better than I remember. Best after 2010. 1,080 cases made. |
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| PAOLO SCAVINO Barolo Carobric 1997 | 96 | $85 | $75 |
| Dark ruby red color. Complex aromas of crushed berry, rose bush and Indian spices. Full-bodied, with ultrafine tannins and powerful, rich fruit, with a fresh herb and mushroom undertone. Very stylish and soulful. Just starting to come around. Give it a little more time. Best after 2009. 305 cases made. |
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| TORNESI Brunello di Montalcino Riserva 1997 | 96 | $95 | $95 |
| Dark color ruby-garnet, with a black center. Very intense blackberry, with black licorice and hints of sandalwood. Full-bodied, with very, very polished and silky tannins. Long, long finish. This is really fabulous. Will further improve. Tiny production. Drink now. 90 cases made. |
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| ROBERTO VOERZIO Barolo Cerequio 1997 | 96 | $150 | $102 |
| Dark color. Loads of blackberry, plum, flowers and dried fruits. Full-bodied, with ultrafine tannins that caress your palate. Blackberry, cherry, dark chocolate and lemons. Long and gorgeous. Just starting to be ready now. A gorgeous wine. Best after 2009. 385 cases made. |
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| AVIGNONESI Vino Nobile di Montepulciano Grandi Annate Riserva 1997 | 95 | $40 | $115 |
| Dark ruby-garnet. Amazing aromas of crushed raspberry and blueberry. So aromatic. Like kir. Full-bodied, with silky, almost chewy tannins and a long, long finish. Just starting to come around. Port-like and beautiful. This was our No. 4 wine in 2001. Still the greatest Vino Nobile ever made. Drink now. 2,600 cases made. |
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| CASTELLO BANFI Brunello di Montalcino Poggio alle Mura 1997 | 95 | $70 | $105 |
| Dark ruby-garnet. Aromas of intense berry and meat follow through to a full body, with big velvety tannins and a long finish. Seems a little closed, but the texture is beautiful. Still a long life ahead of it. Drink now. 6,500 cases made. |
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| CAMPOGIOVANNI Brunello di Montalcino 1997 | 95 | $45 | $45 |
| Dark ruby, with a garnet hue. Aromas of dark chocolate, currant and blackberry. Flowers. Full-bodied, very soft and silky. Long and beautiful. A gorgeous wine. Complex and very balanced. A wine with a long future ahead of it. Drink now through 2017. 5,500 cases made. |
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| TENUTA CARLINA Brunello di Montalcino La Togata Riserva 1997 | 95 | $72 | $72 |
| Very dark ruby-garnet. Fabulous aromas of crushed blackberry, dried flowers and grilled meat. Turns to black licorice. Full-bodied, with supersilky tannins and a long, long finish. Very concentrated and racy. Long life ahead. Drink now through 2017. 280 cases made. |
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| PIO CESARE Barolo 1997 | 95 | $58 | $63 |
| Medium red, with hints of garnet on the edge. Aromas of very ripe strawberry, with cedar, dried mushroom and spices. Fabulous roses on the nose. Full-bodied, with seductive flavors and textures. Strawberry, tea, tar and roses galore, yet refined and subtle. So very long and dense, yet balanced and beautiful. Even better than I remember. This was our No. 7 wine in 2001. Drink now. 6,200 cases made. |
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| PIO CESARE Barolo Ornato 1997 | 95 | $110 | $72 |
| Youthful and racy. Dark ruby red. This shows loads of plum, berry and floral fruit character. Full, silky and very long. Just starting to open, but give it a little more time. Best after 2010. 1,050 cases made. |
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| ALDO CONTERNO Barolo Cicala 1997 | 95 | $112 | $83 |
| Dark ruby red. Very powerful nose, with raisin and spice character. Full-bodied, with lots of dried fruit and toasty oak character. Cedary and meaty as well. Needs some time still. Best after 2009. 800 cases made. |
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| ALDO CONTERNO Barolo Colonnello 1997 | 95 | $112 | $59 |
| Dark ruby. Intense raisin, roasted coffee bean and toasty oak. Full-bodied, with very chewy tannins and a long, powerful and rich finish. This is layered, young and chewy. Still needs time. This has really taken on weight. Getting better and better. Best after 2009. 850 cases made. |
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| CORINO Barolo Vigneto Arborina 1997 | 95 | $60 | $60 |
| Dark ruby red. Intense aromas of plum, tarragon and lemongrass. Full-bodied, with chewy tannins and a long and ripe berry, cedar and licorice aftertaste. Chewy. Big and powerful. Drink now through 2015. 290 cases made. |
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| ROMANO DAL FORNO Amarone della Valpolicella 1997 | 95 | $370 | $398 |
| Dark color. Superpowerful aromas of dark chocolate, blackberry jam and spices from cloves to cinnamon. Full-bodied, with ultravelvety tannins. This juicy and superfruity, with beautiful balance and length. Youthful and beautiful. Classy wine. Best after 2010. 660 cases made. |
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| DIEVOLE Toscana Duemila Dievole 1997 | 95 | $175 / 1.5L | $175 |
| Tasted from magnum. Dark ruby-garnet. Intense aromas of crushed blackberry, currant and spices. Full-bodied, very balanced and silky. Long and beautiful. Perfect now. Drink now through 2014. 830 cases made. |
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| FATTORIA DI FELSINA Toscana Fontalloro 1997 | 95 | $60 | $50 |
| Dark ruby-garnet. Aromas of blackberry, fresh porcini and licorice. Full-bodied, with velvety tannins and a long caressing finish. Very youthful and powerful. Give it a couple of years. Best after 2009. 2,665 cases made. |
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| LA FORNACE Brunello di Montalcino Riserva 1997 | 95 | $65 | $65 |
| Dark ruby-garnet. Aromas of blackberry, grilled meat and dried porcini. Full-bodied, with chewy tannins and a long, powerful finish. Beautiful now, but shows so much potential. Best from 2009 through 2014. 300 cases made. |
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| GAJA Barbaresco 1997 | 95 | $160 | $257 |
| Dark ruby red. Lots of blackberry and cherry aromas. Full-bodied, with chewy tannins and a superfresh palate. It is still mouthpuckering, with layers of ripe and powerful tannins. This needs time. Best after 2010. 5,000 cases made. |
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| LA GERLA Brunello di Montalcino Riserva 1997 | 95 | $75 | $75 |
| Dark ruby-garnet. Aromas of rose, plum and spices follow through to a full body, with silky tannins and a ripe fruit, plum and blackberry finish. Chewy and concentrated. This would still be better with age. Best after 2009. 330 cases made. |
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| ELIO GRASSO Barolo Ginestra Vigna Casa Maté 1997 | 95 | $NA | $NA |
| Dark ruby red. Fabulous aromas of blackberry, cherry and spices that follow through to a full-bodied palate, with supersilky tannins and a long, long finish. Wonderful texture. Starting to come around now. Youthful and exciting. Best after 2010. |
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| ELIO GRASSO Barolo Rüncot 1997 | 95 | $NA | $NA |
| Dark youthful ruby. Amazing fruit on the nose, with blackberry, plum, fresh roses and chocolate. Full-bodied, with loads of fruit and supersilky tannins. This is long and balanced, with focused fruit. Even better than I remember. Fabulous. Still needs time. Best after 2009. 515 cases made. |
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| ISOLE E OLENA Toscana Cepparello 1997 | 95 | $38 | $49 |
| Dark ruby. Beautiful aromas of crushed blackberry, plum, mineral and spices. Full-bodied, with chewy tannins and lots of berry, cut wood and dark chocolate. Very long. Youthful. Still needs time. Best after 2008. 3,900 cases made. |
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| LISINI Brunello di Montalcino 1997 | 95 | $56 | $54 |
| Aromas of meat, fresh porcini and raisin. Full-bodied, with a velvety texture and a long, caressing finish. With air, this delivers loads of super-ripe fruit and opulent, decadent character. Spice rack. Drink now through 2011. 4,400 cases made. |
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| LE MACCHIOLE Toscana Scrio 1997 | 95 | $75 | $99 |
| Dark ruby. Powerful aromas of berry, meat, black licorice and spices follow through to a full body, with soft and round tannins and a long, long finish. This is like a top Côte-Rôtie. Syrah. Drink now. |
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| GIOVANNI MANZONE Barolo Le Gramolere Riserva 1997 | 95 | $75 | $75 |
| Dark ruby red. Intense aromas of crushed blackberry, plum and dried roses. Full-bodied, with ultrarefined tannins and a long, long caressing finish. The texture is wonderful in this wine. It is supertogether. Still needs time. Best after 2009. 200 cases made. |
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| MASSOLINO Barolo Vigna Parafada 1997 | 95 | $63 | $63 |
| Dark ruby red. Lots of rich strawberry and berry character, with hints of flowers. Full-bodied, with loads of fruit and velvety tannins. Berry, strawberry and toasty oak character. Best after 2010. 650 cases made. |
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| MONTEVETRANO Colli di Salerno 1997 | 95 | $60 | $190 |
| Rich and velvety, with plenty of good fruit. Currant and blackberry, with hints of mineral and mint. Full-bodied, with ultrasoft tannins and a long, long finish. Wonderful fruit and style. Just starting to come into its own. Best from 2008 through 2014. |
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| SILVIO NARDI Brunello di Montalcino Vigneto Manachiara 1997 | 95 | $76 | $76 |
| Dark ruby, with a garnet edge. Aromas of licorice and black cherry, with hints of dried flowers. Turns to crushed raspberry. Full-bodied, with ultrafine tannins and beautiful fruit. Goes on and on. Youthful wine at this stage. Drink now through 2017. 800 cases made. |
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| TENUTA DELL'ORNELLAIA Bolgheri Ornellaia 1997 | 95 | $100 | $184 |
| Dark ruby red. Shows intense blackberry, currant, fresh herb and mineral character on the nose. Full-bodied, with ultrafine tannins and a long, caressing finish. Still young and powerful. Best after 2009. 11,415 cases made. |
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| PIANPOLVERE SOPRANO Barolo Bussia 1997 | 95 | $75 | $75 |
| Dark ruby, with a red edge. Wonderful aromas of blackberry, mineral and fresh spices. Full-bodied, with refined tannins and a long, long finish. Superfresh and balanced. Racy. Still very youthful. Best after 2010. 350 cases made. |
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| PIRA Barolo Cannubi 1997 | 95 | $NA | $NA |
| Dark ruby-garnet. Superfresh plum, peach and berry on the nose. Full-bodied, with juicy, yet chewy tannins and a long, rich fruity finish. Reserved and tight still. Give it time. Best after 2010. |
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| PRUNOTTO Barolo Bussia 1997 | 95 | $76 | $64 |
| Very dark ruby red. Intense blackberry, plum and Indian spices. Full-bodied, with superripe, powerful tannins and a long, long finish. Balanced, refined and beautifully textured. Better than I remember. Impressive. Best after 2009. 1,500 cases made. |
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| FATTORIA LE PUPILLE Maremma Toscana Saffredi 1997 | 95 | $80 | $80 |
| Dark ruby, with a purple center. Loads of ripe fruit on the nose, with raisin, blackberry and spices. Full-bodied, with lots of berry, rosemary and tarragon character. Long and chewy. Lots of fruit and mint character. Needs time. Best after 2009. 1,250 cases made. |
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| CASTELLO DEI RAMPOLLA Toscana Sammarco 1997 | 95 | $73 | $75 |
| Rich aromas of blackberry and raspberry jam, with hints of licorice. Full-bodied, with soft, round tannins and a clean, fresh finish. Balanced and refined. Perfect now, but will improve. Drink now through 2014. 3,500 cases made. |
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| RIECINE Toscana La Gioia 1997 | 95 | $53 | $37 |
| Dark ruby red color. Very rich and concentrated on the nose, with masses of plum, toasty oak and blackberry. Full-bodied, with dense fruit and velvety tannins. Very, very fruity. Needs time to open. Best after 2009. 1,025 cases made. |
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| LUCIANO SANDRONE Barolo Le Vigne 1997 | 95 | $105 | $83 |
| Dark ruby red, with a garnet edge. Aromas of dried currant, raisin and vanilla beans. Full-bodied, with loads of ripe fruit, from strawberry to peach to mango. Exotic fruit. Gorgeous wine. Irresistible. Drink now. 500 cases made. |
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| PAOLO SCAVINO Barolo Bric d'l Fiasc 1997 | 95 | $90 | $127 |
| Dark ruby red. Absolutely gorgeous aromas of crushed berry and fresh flowers, with mushroom and spice undertones. Full-bodied, with chewy, rich tannins and a tangy acidity. This still needs time to come together. Very chewy. Best after 2010. 265 cases made. |
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| LA SPINETTA Barbaresco Vigneto Valeirano 1997 | 95 | $74 | $74 |
| Very dark ruby-garnet. Superopulent nose of crushed berry, plum and Indian spices. Superperfumed. Full-bodied, incredibly velvety and ultrachic. Wonderful aftertaste of crushed raspberry and vanilla. This is much, much better than I remember. Best after 2010. 415 cases made. |
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| SYMPOSIUM Montepulciano d'Abruzzo 1997 | 95 | $75 | $75 |
| Black color still. Decadent aromas of blackberry, black pepper and tar. Very powerful. Full-bodied and very jammy, yet rich and balanced. Masses of ripe fruit. Goes on and on. A modern but thoroughly seductive wine. Drink now through 2017. 830 cases made. |
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| VILLA CAFAGGIO Toscana San Martino 1997 | 95 | $50 | $50 |
| Dark ruby-garnet. Intense aromas of blackberry jam, mineral, mint and hints of rose bush. Full-bodied and layered, with superpolished tannins and fabulous fruit. Balanced and refined. It goes for minutes on the palate. Classy Sangiovese. I would still give it time. Best after 2009. 1,077 cases made. |
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| ROBERTO VOERZIO Barolo La Serra 1997 | 95 | $150 | $178 |
| Dark ruby red. Subtle aromas of blackberry, milk chocolate and vanilla, with cloves and cedar. Full-bodied, with ultrapolished tannins and a long, long aftertaste of cedar, berry and flowers. Continuously changes in the glass. It's very complex. Best from 2009 through 2018. 385 cases made. |
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| CASTELLO DI AMA Chianti Classico Bellavista 1997 | 94 | $135 | $53 |
| Dark ruby-garnet, with powerful aromas of dried fruits, from raisin to dates. Very Porty. Full-bodied, with a round and very soft mouthfeel, beautiful ripe fruit and a long, long finish. Wonderful wine. Drink now through 2017. 680 cases made. |
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| TENIMENTI ANGELINI Brunello di Montalcino Val di Suga Vigna Spuntali 1997 | 94 | $92 | $92 |
| Deep garnet, with an amber edge. Fabulous aromas of wild mushroom, fresh flowers and plum. Very aromatic. Full-bodied, with a marvelously silky mouthfeel and a long, flavorful finish of fruit and sandalwood. Drink now. 1,760 cases made. |
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| ANTINORI Toscana Tignanello 1997 | 94 | $75 | $138 |
| Dark ruby-garnet, with aromas of meat, berry and freshly picked roses. Full-bodied, with very soft tannins and beautiful currant and blackberry character. Long, silky and caressing. Sangiovese and Cabernet. Drink now. 27,000 cases made. |
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| ARGIANO Toscana Solengo 1997 | 94 | $58 | $110 |
| Dark ruby red. Aromas of plum, milk chocolate and mandarin peel. Full-bodied, with velvety tannins and lots of ripe fruit. Long and rich. Balanced and silky. Beautifully proportioned. Drink now through 2017. 2,500 cases made. |
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| CASTELLO BANFI Brunello di Montalcino 1997 | 94 | $50 | $65 |
| Dark ruby-garnet. Aromas of blackberry, coffee bean and meat. Full-bodied, with velvety tannins and a long, caressing finish. Big and racy. Still needs some bottle age. Best after 2009. 32,500 cases made. |
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| BARONE RICASOLI Toscana Casalferro 1997 | 94 | $38 | $35 |
| Dark ruby-garnet. Very ripe aromas of raisin, spices and grilled meat follow through to a full body, with round and rich tannins and a long, long finish. Layered and very fresh. Beautiful. Best after 2009. 8,750 cases made. |
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| GIACOMO BORGOGNO & FIGLI Barolo Classico Riserva 1997 | 94 | $NA | $NA |
| Ruby-garnet. Aromas of strawberry, lilies and plum. Opens up beautifully. Full-bodied, with very soft and round tannins. Viscous and tannic. Still needs time to polish the tannins. Very concentrated. Best after 2010. |
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| CASANOVA DI NERI Brunello di Montalcino Tenuta Nuova 1997 | 94 | $65 | $64 |
| Dark ruby. Wonderful aromas of crushed berry, fresh flowers and red licorice. Full-bodied, with velvety tannins and a long, long finish. Lots of mushroom, berry and chocolate flavors. Best after . 4,580 cases made. |
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| PIO CESARE Barbaresco Il Bricco 1997 | 94 | $105 | $105 |
| Dark ruby red. Wonderful blackberry, dried mushroom and fresh meat on the nose. Full body, with velvety tannins and a long caressing finish. Still very tight, yet there is a richness underneath it all. Best after 2009. 730 cases made. |
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| CIACCI PICCOLOMINI D'ARAGONA Brunello di Montalcino Vigna di Pianrosso Riserva 1997 | 94 | $95 | $106 |
| Dark ruby. Youthful aromas of blackberry, cherry and mineral, with a hint of flowers. Full-bodied, with superfine tannins and a long, long finish. I love the berry, leather and floral flavors. Drink now through 2017. 550 cases made. |
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| COL D'ORCIA Brunello di Montalcino Poggio al Vento Riserva 1997 | 94 | $60 | $60 |
| Medium ruby, with a garnet edge. Aromas of dried flowers, raspberry and cherry. Full-bodied, with chewy tannins and focused fruit. Racy style. Lots of fruit, yet closed and reserved still. Needs more time. Best after 2009. 1,500 cases made. |
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| FATTORIA DI FELSINA Toscana Berardenga Maestro Raro 1997 | 94 | $54 | $58 |
| Dark ruby-garnet. Fabulous nose of crushed berry, roses and citrus fruit, with a hint of blackberry. Full-bodied, rich and round, with beautiful velvety tannins and a long rich finish. This Cabernet is just coming around now. Best after 2008. 550 cases made. |
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| FONTODI Colli della Toscana Centrale Flaccianello 1997 | 94 | $68 | $79 |
| Complex aromas of ripe plum, with orange peel, Indian spices and sweet tobacco. Full-bodied, round and beautiful, with soft tannins and a fresh, lively finish. The balance of opulent fruit and fresh acidity is so appealing. Why wait any longer? Drink now. 5,000 cases made. |
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| GAJA Langhe Sperss 1997 | 94 | $190 | $343 |
| Dark ruby. Loads of blackberry, vanilla and milk chocolate on the nose. Turns to licorice and flowers. Full-bodied, with a subtle tannin structure and fresh and focused fruit. Balanced and pretty wine. Just starting to open. Best from 2008 through 2017. 2,000 cases made. |
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| MOCCAGATTA Barbaresco Cole 1997 | 94 | $52 | $52 |
| Extremely ripe strawberry aromas with coffee and cream. Full-bodied, with round and fruity flavors, semichewy tannins and a long finish. Big and opulent style. Just coming around. Best from 2008 through 2018. 200 cases made. |
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| MAURO MOLINO Barolo Vigna Conca 1997 | 94 | $67 | $67 |
| Dark ruby, with a red edge. Wonderful fruity aromas of blackberry, fresh mushroom and licorice. Full-bodied, with velvety tannins and a fruity, mineral aftertaste. Long finish. Drink now through 2014. 205 cases made. |
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| MAURO MOLINO Barolo Vigna Gancia 1997 | 94 | $60 | $60 |
| Deep, dark ruby-garnet. Gorgeous aromas of strawberry, fresh rose and perfume. Full-bodied and very layered, with super-well-integrated tannins and a long, long finish. All in finesse. Better than I remember. Drink now through 2015. 375 cases made. |
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| PARUSSO Barolo Bussia Vigna Munie 1997 | 94 | $67 | $67 |
| Dark ruby red. Complex and subtle aromas of fresh mushroom and ripe fruit follow through to a full-bodied palate, with silky tannins and a rich, caressing mouthfeel. Even better than I remember. Drink now through 2015. 420 cases made. |
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| FATTORIA PETROLO Toscana Torrione 1997 | 94 | $42 | $33 |
| Dark ruby. Youthful aromas of crushed blackberry and flowers. Very aromatic. Full-bodied, superfresh with silky, racy tannins and a long aftertaste of raspberry, mineral and plum. Still needs time. Best after 2009. 1,200 cases made. |
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| POGGIO ANTICO Brunello di Montalcino Altero 1997 | 94 | $56 | $75 |
| Dark ruby-garnet. Rich aromas of dried fruits, mushroom and meat follow through to a full body, with superrich fruit and a long, long finish. Big and rich, like an Amarone. Where's the game? Drink now. 1,105 cases made. |
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| POGGIO ANTICO Brunello di Montalcino Riserva 1997 | 94 | $84 | $109 |
| Dark ruby-garnet. Very ripe aromas of blackberry and jam. Meaty. Full-bodied, with jammy fruit on the palate. Long and caressing. Silky. Very long. Beautiful. Just opening up to be drunk. Drink now. 1,600 cases made. |
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| ROCCHE DEI MANZONI Barolo Vigna Big d'Big Riserva 1997 | 94 | $NA | $NA |
| Wow. What a fabulous nose of crushed berry, Indian spices and blackberry. Full-bodied, with silky and firm tannins and a long, long finish. A clean and racy style. Still needs time. Best after 2009. |
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| TENUTA SAN GUIDO Bolgheri-Sassicaia Sassicaia 1997 | 94 | $135 | $318 |
| Dark ruby red. Blackberry, with lots of fresh herb and meat character. Full-bodied, with velvety tannins and loads of fresh fruit and tarragon. Dill flavors on the finish. Textbook Sassicaia that grows in the mouth. Give it a little more time. Best after 2009. 12,500 cases made. |
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| PAOLO SCAVINO Barolo Rocche dell'Annunziata Riserva 1997 | 94 | $180 | $140 |
| Very dark ruby. Wonderful aromas of roses, blackberry, violet and licorice. Full-bodied, with velvety tannins and lots of juicy fruit. Turns to fresh mushroom on the finish. Balanced and pretty. Just coming around. Drink now. 250 cases made. |
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| TENUTA DI SESTA Brunello di Montalcino Riserva 1997 | 94 | $NA | $NA |
| Dark ruby-garnet. Intense aromas of blackberry jam and hints of Indian spices. Full-bodied, with lots of velvety tannins and a long caressing finish. Gorgeous and decadent now, but will improve for a long time. Drink now. 4,300 cases made. |
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| SOTTIMANO Barbaresco Currà Vigna Masué 1997 | 94 | $47 | $47 |
| Very opulent on the nose, with ripe strawberry and freshly cut flowers. Full-bodied, with soft and round tannins and a long flavorful finish. Beautiful and balanced. Drink now through 2015. 330 cases made. |
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| VIETTI Barolo Lazzarito 1997 | 94 | $70 | $70 |
| Dark ruby. Fabulous aromas of crushed wild strawberry, blackberry and flowers. Full-bodied, with velvety tannins and bright fruit. It's fresh and beautiful. So youthful. And in balance. Much better than I remember. Best after 2009. 350 cases made. |
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| VILLA CAFAGGIO Toscana Cortaccio 1997 | 94 | $50 | $50 |
| Dark color. Amazing aromas of crushed blackberry, blueberry, chocolate and mint follow through to a full body, with soft, velvety tannins and a long finish. Beautiful. Young and fresh but why wait? Cabernet Sauvignon. Drink now. 554 cases made. |
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| ROBERTO VOERZIO Barbera d'Alba Vigneto Pozzo dell'Annunziata Riserva 1997 | 94 | $300 / 1.5L | $239 |
| Tasted from magnum. Black color. Powerful aromas of blackberry, licorice and tar follow through to a full body, with big juicy tannins and a long bright fruit finish. Lots of citrus fruit and berry in the aftertaste. This Barbera is holding up beautifully. Proves that great Barbera ages well. Even better than when I tasted it young. Drink now. 125 cases made. |
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| CASTELLO DI AMA Toscana Vigna l'Apparita 1997 | 93 | $150 | $117 |
| Dark ruby red. Superfresh on the nose, with currant, blackberry and dried flowers. Full-bodied, with very ripe tannins, yet polished and silky. Focused fruit as well. Balanced and refined. Still a bit young. Always an outstanding Merlot. Best after 2008. 672 cases made. |
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| ARGIANO Brunello di Montalcino 1997 | 93 | $55 | $84 |
| Dark ruby, with hints of red on the edge. Blackberry aromas, with hints of fresh porcini and fresh meat. Full-bodied, with velvety tannins and a long, long finish. Layered and beautiful. Better than I remember. Best after . 11,000 cases made. |
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| BARONE RICASOLI Chianti Classico Castello di Brolio 1997 | 93 | $45 | $45 |
| Dark ruby color, with chocolate, berry and vanilla aromas. Full-bodied and velvety, with lots of fruit and a long, succulent finish. Layered and beautiful. Even better than I remember. Delicious. Drink now. 17,000 cases made. |
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| GIACOMO BORGOGNO & FIGLI Barolo Riserva 1997 | 93 | $NA | $NA |
| Medium ruby red. Beautiful aromas of strawberry, flowers and leather follow through to a full body, with supersilky tannins and a long, caressing finish. Gorgeous plum, blackberry and floral character. Best after 2009. |
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| CAPARZO Brunello di Montalcino La Casa 1997 | 93 | $80 | $110 |
| Dark ruby, with some red edge to it. Very ripe fruit on the nose, with a jammy raspberry and cherry character. Full-bodied, with polished tannins and a long finish. Just coming around now. Drink now. 1,900 cases made. |
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| CAPRILI Brunello di Montalcino Riserva 1997 | 93 | $62 | $62 |
| Dark ruby, with a garnet edge. Aromas of blackberry and hints of roses and violet. Full-bodied, with silky tannins and a long caressing finish. What a beautiful balance to this wine. Gorgeous. Drink now. 445 cases made. |
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| CARRETTA Barbaresco Cascina Bordino 1997 | 93 | $45 | $45 |
| Dark ruby red. Wonderful aromas of crushed berry and strawberry, with a hint of Indian spices. Full-bodied, with velvety tannins and a long, rich finish. Still a baby. Best after 2009. 1,200 cases made. |
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| CASTELLARE DI CASTELLINA Colli della Toscana Centrale I Sodi di San Niccolò 1997 | 93 | $60 | $60 |
| Dark ruby red. Lots of blackberry and fresh cherry, with hints of chocolate and meat. Full-bodied, with tangy fruit, fresh tannins and a long finish. Balanced and rich. All there. Still very youthful. Sangiovese and Malvasia. Best from 2008 through 2018. 2,500 cases made. |
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| CENTOLANI Brunello di Montalcino Pietranera 1997 | 93 | $60 | $60 |
| Dark ruby-garnet. Gorgeous and subtle aromas of blackberry, dark chocolate and mahogany. Full-bodied, with racy and silky tannins and a long, long finish. This has a beautiful texture. Still needs time to develop. Best after 2009. 1,110 cases made. |
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| CERETTO Barolo Brunate 1997 | 93 | $91 | $58 |
| Ruby-garnet. Rich aromas of strawberry, dried porcini and leather. Full-bodied, with sweet, ripe fruit and a licorice and floral finish. Drink now. 2,930 cases made. |
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| MICHELE CHIARLO Barbaresco Asili 1997 | 93 | $79 | $79 |
| Deep ruby red, with a brick edge. Rich aromas of fresh plum and Spanish cedar. Full-bodied, with ripe. silky tannins and a long, fruity finish. It's firm and structured. Needs a bit of time still. Best after 2009. 500 cases made. |
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| LE CHIUSE Brunello di Montalcino Riserva 1997 | 93 | $50 | $50 |
| Aromas of crushed berry and dried flowers follow through to a full body, with supersilky tannins and a long rich finish. Opulent and decadent. Drink now. 250 cases made. |
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| CONTERNO-FANTINO Barolo Vigna del Gris 1997 | 93 | $77 | $77 |
| Dark ruby-garnet. Aromas of plum, spices and cedar follow through to a full body, with round and velvety tannins and a fresh finish. Lots of tobacco, mushroom and ripe fruit in the aftertaste. Juicy wine. Just starting to be ready. Best from 2009 through 2015. 800 cases made. |
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| CORDERO DI MONTEZEMOLO Barolo Vigna Bricco Gattera 1997 | 93 | $86 | $86 |
| Deep dark ruby. Beautiful aromas of strawberry, licorice, tar and plum. Full-bodied, with layered tannins and a supersoft texture. Turns chewy in the end. But gorgeous all round. Best after 2009. 535 cases made. |
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| FEUDI DI SAN GREGORIO Irpinia Syriacus 1997 | 93 | $NA | $NA |
| Ruby-garnet. Decadent aromas of raw meat, very ripe fruit and barnyard. Blows off and turns to raspberry and fresh flowers. Fascinating nose. Full-bodied, with very ripe blackberry, spice and game. Long and caressing. Wonderful. Like an aged Northern Rhône wine. Drink now. 550 cases made. |
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| FRANCO FIORINA Barolo 1997 | 93 | $45 | $45 |
| Very dark ruby-garnet. The nose evolves wonderfully to prune, tar and blackberry jam. Full-bodied, with ultravelvety tannins and a long, chewy, yet soft-textured finish. Big and rich. Better than I remember. Drink now through 2017. 1,800 cases made. |
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| FONTERUTOLI Chianti Classico Castello di Fonterutoli Riserva 1997 | 93 | $45 | $45 |
| Dark ruby-garnet. Very ripe, almost decadent aromas of earth, berry, chocolate and meat follow through to a full body, with big, velvety tannins and a long, long rich finish. Powerful for a Chianti Classico. Will continue to improve. Drink now. 11,000 cases made. |
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| FONTERUTOLI Toscana Siepi 1997 | 93 | $80 | $35 |
| Very dark ruby-garnet. Very concentrated, with raisin, spice and currant. Coffee and mahogany undertones. Full-bodied, very soft and layered, with wonderful decadent fruit. Long and exciting. Gorgeous. Sangiovese and Merlot. Drink now. 2,250 cases made. |
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| FONTODI Syrah Colli della Toscana Centrale Case Via 1997 | 93 | $42 | $44 |
| Dark ruby. Decadent aromas of berry, chocolate and game, with hints of grilled meat. Full-bodied, with soft and beautiful tannins that caress the palate. Long, flavorful and decadent. Even better than I remember. Drink now. 1,000 cases made. |
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| FATTORIA GALARDI Roccamonfina Terra di Lavoro 1997 | 93 | $45 | $45 |
| Very dark ruby color. Powerful, pungent aromas of crushed berry, fresh flowers and meat. So perfumed. Full-bodied, with silky tannins and a fresh palate. Plenty of subtle mint, raspberry and mineral. A fine and fascinating red. Drink now. |
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| MARCHESI DI GRÉSY Barbaresco Camp Gros Martinenga 1997 | 93 | $85 | $85 |
| Dark ruby red. Loads of plum, fresh mushroom and licorice. Full-bodied, with fine tannins, yet chewy texture. Plenty of fruit, but slightly subdued. Needs time still. Best after 2009. 750 cases made. |
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| MARCHESI DI GRÉSY Barbaresco Gaiun Martinenga 1997 | 93 | $90 | $90 |
| Ruby-garnet. Floral and pretty, with plum skin and citrus fruit character on the nose. Full-bodied, with pretty, silky tannins and a long, flavorful finish. Just starting to be drinkable. Best after 2009. 650 cases made. |
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| MASSOLINO Barolo Vigna Margheria 1997 | 93 | $63 | $63 |
| Medium ruby red, with hints of garnet. Rich aromas of plum, meat and dried flowers. Full-bodied, with velvety tannins and a coffee, toasty oak and Port-like character. Soft, yet chewy. Well structured. Best after 2009. 850 cases made. |
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| MOCCAGATTA Barbaresco Basarin 1997 | 93 | $45 | $45 |
| Ruby-garnet, with very ripe fruit aromas of prune, strawberry and Indian spices. Full-bodied, with chewy tannins and a long, flavorful aftertaste. Lots going on here. Drink now. 450 cases made. |
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| MOCCAGATTA Barbaresco Bric Balin 1997 | 93 | $45 | $31 |
| Dark ruby-garnet. Very ripe fruit aromas, with meat and coffee. Full-bodied, round and very rich, with loads of opulent toasty oak, berry and light vanilla character. Drink now through 2015. 1,850 cases made. |
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| AGOSTINA PIERI Brunello di Montalcino 1997 | 93 | $50 | $50 |
| Dark ruby-garnet. Aromas of blackberry, dried flowers and porcini. Full-bodied, with fine, silky tannins and a long caressing finish. Plenty going on. Drink now through 2013. 750 cases made. |
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| LA PODERINA Brunello di Montalcino 1997 | 93 | $56 | $56 |
| Dark ruby-garnet. Intense aromas of blackberry, mineral and violet, with just a hint of rose. Full-bodied, with soft and caressing tannins and a long, refined finish. Beautiful texture. Drink now. 450 cases made. |
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| LA PODERINA Brunello di Montalcino Selezione 1997 | 93 | $NA | $NA |
| Youthful ruby, with a garnet rim. Intense aromas of blackberry, sandalwood and rose. Full-bodied, with silky, caressing tannins. Medium finish. Still tight and austere. The "Selezione" bottling is now labeled as "Poggio Banale". Best after 2009. 450 cases made. |
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| POGGIO DI SOTTO Brunello di Montalcino 1997 | 93 | $68 | $77 |
| Medium garnet red. Aromas of ripe strawberry, dried flowers and dried porcini. Full-bodied, with silky tannins and a long, fruity finish. Fresh and clean. Complex. Drink now through 2015. 1,080 cases made. |
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| IL POGGIONE Brunello di Montalcino Riserva 1997 | 93 | $71 | $71 |
| Medium ruby-garnet, with plum, orange peel and flowers on the nose. Full-bodied, with a wonderfully silky palate. Long and caressing. Very beautiful. All in the right proportion. Drink now. 2,500 cases made. |
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| FRATELLI REVELLO Barolo Rocche dell'Annunziata 1997 | 93 | $80 | $80 |
| Dark ruby red. Extremely ripe fruit nose, with blackberry, mineral and tar. Full-bodied, with velvety, chewy tannins and a long, caressing finish. Loads of toasty oak. Rich. Evolving wonderfully. Drink now through . 85 cases made. |
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| FRATELLI REVELLO Barolo Vigna Conca 1997 | 93 | $67 | $67 |
| Dark ruby-garnet. Blackberry, rose and plum on the nose. Full-bodied, with soft, round tannins and lots of stylish fruit and spicy character. Long and caressing. Just coming around now. Best from 2008 through 2015. 200 cases made. |
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| RIECINE Chianti Classico Riserva 1997 | 93 | $40 | $40 |
| Dark ruby. Rich aromas of ripe fruit, with blackberry, mushroom and light chocolate. Medium-bodied, with fine tannins and a juicy, fresh finish. Lemony as well. Holding on beautifully. Drink now. 490 cases made. |
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| ROCCHE DEI MANZONI Barolo Vigna Cappella di S. Stefano Riserva 1997 | 93 | $NA | $NA |
| Dark ruby red. Very fresh, with lemon, plum and licorice character. Full-bodied, with chewy tannins and a long, crisp finish. Solid. Closed still. Tannic. Best after 2009. |
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| SOTTIMANO Barbaresco Fausoni Vigna del Salto 1997 | 93 | $45 | $45 |
| Dark ruby red. Really perfumed, with strawberry, blackberry and sandalwood. Full and round, with lovely velvety tannins and a chocolate, smoky, fruity finish. Drink now through 2015. 330 cases made. |
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| LA SPINETTA Barbaresco Vigneto Starderi 1997 | 93 | $75 | $53 |
| Dark ruby red. Loads of Christmas cake, dried fruits and cream character. Full-bodied, with big and chewy tannins and loads of toasty oak, coffee and fruit on the finish. Just starting to come around. Give it a little more time. Best after 2010. 915 cases made. |
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| TALENTI Brunello di Montalcino Pian di Conte 1997 | 93 | $65 | $65 |
| Ruby-garnet, with aromas of mushroom, licorice, violet and black fruits. Full and chewy, with lots of fruit and a rich finish. Layered and decadent. Drink now. 2,380 cases made. |
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| CICCIO ZACCAGNINI Montepulciano d'Abruzzo Sallis Castrum San Clemente 1997 | 93 | $19 | $19 |
| Dark youthful color. Powerful aromas of blackberry, mineral and mahogany. Full-bodied, with very rich and ripe tannins. Jammy yet stylish with lots going. Reminds me of a top Ch‰teauneuf. This was a steal at $19 on release. Drink now. 600 cases made. |
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| ALTESINO Brunello di Montalcino Riserva 1997 | 92 | $105 | $79 |
| Ruby-garnet. Aromas of plum skin, orange peel and violet. Full-bodied, with good fruit, a harmonious palate and silky tannins. This seems just to be at its peak at the moment. Drink now. 1,200 cases made. |
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| CASTELLO DI AMA Chianti Classico La Casuccia 1997 | 92 | $135 | $118 |
| Very dark ruby, with just a hint of pepper, plum and spices. Full-bodied, with a very rich palate of light raisin, cloves and mineral. Long and velvety. Still closed. Best from 2009 through 2015. 680 cases made. |
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| CAMPOGIOVANNI Brunello di Montalcino Il Quercione Riserva 1997 | 92 | $132 | $132 |
| Dark ruby, with an amber edge. Intense aromas of ripe plum and fresh mushroom follow through to a full body, with soft tannins and a fresh clean finish. Crisp and decadent. Drink now through 2012. 900 cases made. |
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| CONTERNO-FANTINO Barolo Sorì Ginestra 1997 | 92 | $NA | $NA |
| Dark ruby-garnet. Plum, prune and vanilla bean on the nose. Full-bodied, with velvety tannins and a long, caressing, textured finish. Delicious already. Drink now through 2015. |
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| GIACOMO CONTERNO Barolo Cascina Francia 1997 | 92 | $NA | $74 |
| Smells like top-notch Burgundy, with strawberry, smoke, flowers and light earth. Full-bodied, with rich, round tannins and lots of rich, almost decadent fruit. Long and caressing. Ready. Drink now. |
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| GIUSEPPE CONTRATTO Barolo Cerequio Secolo 1997 | 92 | $60 | $60 |
| Dark ruby red. Rich aromas of red fruits and fresh mushroom follow through to a full body, with soft tannins and a long chocolate, plum and vanilla aftertaste. Lovely finish. Just starting to come together. Drink now. 650 cases made. |
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| CORDERO DI MONTEZEMOLO Barolo Vigna Enrico VI 1997 | 92 | $97 | $97 |
| Rich plum and blackberry aromas, with hints of spices. Full-bodied, with soft tannins and a berry, licorice and dried flower aftertaste. Structured. Best after 2009. 1,100 cases made. |
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| CONTI COSTANTI Brunello di Montalcino Riserva 1997 | 92 | $97 | $83 |
| Medium-dark garnet-ruby, with aromas of fresh mushroom, blackberry and light earth. Full-bodied, with soft and silky tannins, fresh acidity and a long flavorful finish. All in balance. Holding on well. Drink now. 650 cases made. |
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| EREDI FULIGNI Brunello di Montalcino 1997 | 92 | $64 | $81 |
| Dark brick red, with an amber edge. Slightly decadent aromas, with very ripe strawberry, game and blackberry. Full-bodied, with soft tannins and a chocolate, blackberry and cherry aftertaste. Very Burgundian. Drink now. 2,080 cases made. |
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| BRUNO GIACOSA Barolo Falletto 1997 | 92 | $151 | $99 |
| Medium ruby-garnet. A bit advanced. Cooked plum, berry and Indian spices follow through to a full body, with soft tannins and a fruity finish. Long and caressing. Very beautiful. Very Burgundian. Drink now. 1,290 cases made. |
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| PARUSSO Barolo Bussia Vigna Rocche 1997 | 92 | $72 | $72 |
| Dark ruby red. Pretty plum and wild strawberry, with fresh mushroom. Full-bodied, with a solid core of ripe fruit and silky tannins. Long and pretty. Drink now through 2015. 500 cases made. |
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| PARUSSO Barolo Piccole Vigne 1997 | 92 | $53 | $53 |
| Dark ruby-garnet. Beautiful aromas of tar, licorice and ripe berry follow through to a full body, with chewy tannins and a ripe fruit, peppery aftertaste. Long life ahead still. Drink now through 2015. 500 cases made. |
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| BRUNO ROCCA Barbaresco Rabajà 1997 | 92 | $NA | $NA |
| Ruby red, with a garnet edge. Very open aromas of violet, berry and sweet spices. Full-bodied, with very fine tannins and well-integrated fruit. Dried dark fruits and Indian spices on the finish. Chewy too. Give it a little more time. Best from 2008 through 2016. |
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| SAN FELICE Toscana Vigorello 1997 | 92 | $32 | |