Name: Giacomo Conterno Barolo Francia 2012 750ml
Brand: Giacomo Conterno
SKU: 920544
Price: 289.95 USD
Availability: InStock
Rating: 96 (4 reviews)

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Winery

Giacomo Conterno

Shop all from Giacomo Conterno

Varietal

Nebbiolo

The Nebbiolo grape varietal is widely understood to be the fruit responsible for Italy's finest aged wines. However, its popularity and reliability as a grape which gives out outstanding flavors and aromas has led it to be planted in many countries around the world, with much success. These purple grapes are distinguishable by the fact that they take on a milky dust as they begin to reach maturity, leading many to claim that this is the reason for their unusual name, which means 'fog' in Italian. Nebbiolo grapes produce wines which have a wide range of beautiful and fascinating flavors, the most common of which are rich, dark and complex, such as violet, truffle, tobacco and prunes. They are generally aged for many years to balance out their characteristics, as their natural tannin levels tend to be very high.

Country

Italy

There are few countries in the world with a viticultural history as long or as illustrious as that claimed by Italy. Grapes were first being grown and cultivated on Italian soil several thousand years ago by the Greeks and the Pheonicians, who named Italy 'Oenotria' – the land of wines – so impressed were they with the climate and the suitability of the soil for wine production. Of course, it was the rise of the Roman Empire which had the most lasting influence on wine production in Italy, and their influence can still be felt today, as much of the riches of the empire came about through their enthusiasm for producing wines and exporting it to neighbouring countries. Since those times, a vast amount of Italian land has remained primarily for vine cultivation, and thousands of wineries can be found throughout the entire length and breadth of this beautiful country, drenched in Mediterranean sunshine and benefiting from the excellent fertile soils found there. Italy remains very much a 'land of wines', and one could not imagine this country, its landscape and culture, without it.

Region

Piedmont

Situated in the north-western part of Italy, the region of Piedmont is known worldwide and is highly respected for the quality of the wines produced there. Many of the most successful sub-regions in Piedmont produce many of the world's finest red wines, such as those made from the excellent Nebbiolo grape varietal in areas such as Barolo and Barbaresco. However, the historic wineries which typify this region use a relatively wide variety of grapes, including Dolcetto and Barbera for their red wines, which are typically aged and have a delightful velvety character. Piedmont isn't all about beautifully complex red wines, though, as it is also famed for high quality, elegant sparkling wines, notably the Asti wines made with the white Moscato grape. The region benefits from a range of terroirs which are often well expressed in the sparkling wines, and a wonderfully consistent climate ideal for vineyard cultivation.

Appellation

Barolo

Barolo’s star grape is Nebbiolo, a finicky yet expressive variety that reaches its zenith this unique terroir. The region’s distinct microclimates and soils contribute to Nebbiolo’s complexity, resulting in wines with robust tannins, high acidity, and exceptional aging potential. Barolo wines, often referred to as “the king of wines,” are characterized by their deep garnet hue and complex bouquet, offering aromas of roses, tar, truffles, and red fruit. The aging process is significant, requiring at least 38 months, with a minimum of 18 months spent in wooden casks. This meticulous craftsmanship results in wines that evolve beautifully over time, displaying a harmonious balance of power and finesse. For wine enthusiasts, exploring Barolo provides a captivating journey into the rich tapestry of Italian winemaking, showcasing the profound marriage of tradition, terroir, and Nebbiolo’s distinctive expression.

JS 98pts

James Suckling

A gorgeous nose of orange peel, plums and light walnuts. Some wet earth. Full to medium body with a compacted center palate. A tight ball of ripe, fine tannins. Minerals and hot stones underneath. Serious structure. No Monfortino was made so it's all here. Better in 2022.

VM 97pts

Vinous Media

The 2012 Barolo Francia is wonderfully expressive today. Much more open than the Barolo Cerretta tasted alongside it, the Francia bristles with energy. Floral and mineral overtones add to an impression of brightness, yet there is plenty of underlying tannin and overall structure. In 2012, Roberto Conterno did not bottle his flagship Barolo Monfortino. Instead, the cask that would have been destined for Monfortino was blended into the Francia. Historically, that decision has often resulted in a 'super Francia.' It will be interesting to see if the 2012 gains volume and depth in aging. I have to say, the wine is surprisingly accessible in the early going, although it has just been bottled and is likely to close down at some point. All the promise the 2012 showed in cask comes through loud and clear.

WA 95pts

Wine Advocate

Since the 2010 vintage, this wine is named Francia (not Cascina Francia) to keep with the new Menzioni Geografiche Aggiuntive (or official cru naming) in Barolo and Barbaresco. The 2012 Barolo Francia is a seductive and silky expression that flows gracefully over the palate with power and determination. The nose is expressive, and decidedly more articulate than many of the more muted wines made by neighboring estates in this warm vintage. The quality of the mouthfeel is of special interest. This beautiful Barolo already shows stunning texture, richness and integrity, despite this very early preview tasting. I tasted this wine in barrel shortly before bottling.

WS 94pts

Wine Spectator

Richly textured and spiced, this red features cherry, licorice, tar and leather flavors. Direct and almost fleshy, with a lingering finish that echoes leather, tar, tobacco and cocoa notes. A firm grip of tannins seals the deal. Best from 2020 through 2040. 2,000 cases made.

Winery Notes

This wine was labeled as 'Cascina Francia' until vintage 2009.

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Giacomo Conterno Barolo Francia 2012 750ml

Case of 12

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Winery

Giacomo Conterno

Varietal

Nebbiolo

Country

Italy

Region

Piedmont

Appellation

Barolo

James Suckling

Vinous Media

Wine Advocate

Wine Spectator

Winery Notes

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