Giacomo Conterno Barolo Riserva Monfortino 1988

95/100 vinous

"The 1988 Barolo Riserva Monfortino is a gorgeous start to this night. Drinking it is like stepping back in time. A glorious, old-school Barolo, the 1988 is also in a great spot for drinking now. Smoke, leather, grilled herbs and brown spices open up in the bouquet. Muscular tannins make themselves felt as they wrap around a core of dark cherry/plum fruit. I have never truly loved the 1988, as it has always been a bit rustic, but this is as good as it gets."
(Antonio Galloni, vinous.com)

94/100 vinous

"We concluded the Conterno portion of the tasting with four vintages of Monfortino, which again offered something for everyone. The 1997 is irresistible today, as is the 1990, but it is perhaps the 1988 that offers the most complete Monfortino experience today. 1997 Barolo Riserva Monfortino?Rich ruby. Unbelievable, seductive nose of roses, sweet fruit and minerals that recalls the legendary 1982. The 1997 is massive and dense on the palate, yet penetrating, with waves of sweet dark fruit and cocoa that coat the palate seamlessly, with great structure and length underneath. A spectacular, riveting effort that is impossible to resist today."
(Antonio Galloni, vinous.com)