Paolo Conterno Barolo DOCG 2003
Description
This bottle comes from the historic Paolo Conterno estate, located in the heart of the Langhe region in Monforte d'Alba, Piedmont. Established in 1886, the winery has been managed by successive generations of the Conterno family, maintaining a deep commitment to traditional winemaking methods and the cultivation of the native Nebbiolo grape.
The estate is highly regarded for its prime holdings in the renowned Ginestra cru, one of Monforte d'Alba's most celebrated vineyard sites, famous for producing structured, profoundly age-worthy Barolos with distinct mineral undertones. This specific bottling represents their classic Barolo expression, crafted from hand-harvested Nebbiolo grapes and matured traditionally in large French oak casks (botti) rather than aggressive new small barriques.
- Type: Red Wine
- Grape Variety: 100% Nebbiolo.
- Classification: Barolo DOCG (Denominazione di Origine Controllata e Garantita).
- Vintage Context: The 2003 growing season in Europe was notoriously hot and dry, resulting in an early harvest with exceptionally concentrated sugars and lower natural acidity. While challenging, skilled producers like Paolo Conterno managed to create rich, powerful wines that reached maturity faster than cooler vintages.
- Volume: 750 mL.
- Tasting Notes & Profile: Given that this wine is over two decades old and hails from a blistering vintage, it has fully evolved into its tertiary drinking window. Expect a clear garnet color with a distinct orange-brick rim. The nose opens with classic aged Nebbiolo aromas: tar, dried red roses, leather, liquorice, and dried cranberries, alongside hints of warm earth and balsamic wood. The palate features resolved, chalky tannins and a warm, full-bodied core of dark fruit compote, finishing with a lingering touch of savory spice.
Woodden Box NOT provided
