2011 Giacomo Conterno "Cascina Francia" Barolo

A model of pure sensuality and grace, the 2011 Barolo Francia is utterly captivating today. An exquisite bouquet laced with crushed flowers and spices melds into a core of silky fruit in a deceptively mid-weight, regal Barolo. A host of chalky, mineral and savory notes - all signatures of Francia - underpin the fruit. The 2011 is polished and graceful to the core. In 2011, there is no Monfortino. Roberto Conterno opted to blend in that cask with his Francia casks. For about as long as I have known him, Conterno has been fervent in his belief that Nebbiolo can often overcome rain, even heavy rain, while excess heat and dryness are more challenging. Given that view, it's hardly a surprise Conterno did not make a Monfortino in 2003, 2007 or 2009. Next to the Francia Barolos in those vintages, the 2011 is quite a bit more lifted in style. (AG)