Her Mir Tage

9.7

1955 Giacomo Conterno Barolo (Ditta) – The "Great Emperor"

Appearance: The wine unfurls in the glass with a majestic, deep garnet core that gracefully fades into a wide brick-orange rim—the unmistakable heraldry of seven decades of life. It is perfectly clear and luminous, promising a profound experience.

Nose (Aroma): The aromatic profile is a walk through an ancient, sacred forest after the rain. It opens with a deep sense of humid earth, fungal truffle, and a subtle, refined smoked leather. As it opens, a beautiful core of blueberry compote and dried dark fruits emerges, intertwined with a complex tapestry of Chinese medicinal herbs and dried florals. It is both powerful and hauntingly ethereal.

Palate (Taste): The palate is a breathtaking journey into umami and complexity. True to the legend, the fruit has transformed into an intense medley of sweet preserved fruit (dried apricot, date). This is immediately met with a profound savory depth: a distinct salted Chinese preserved plum character provides a mouthwatering salinity, while a fine dusting of astragalus root powder and angelica root brings an authentic, warming medicinal bitterness that defines the wine’s regal structure. A hint of spicy dried ginger soda lingers on the mid-palate, adding a lift of unexpected freshness.

Acidity & Structure: The acidity is the heartbeat of this wine—sustained, mellow, and incredibly refined. It does not jab but rather flows continuously, carrying the dense, dried flavors across the palate with remarkable energy. The tannins have fully resolved into a silken, powdery texture, leaving nothing but harmony.

Finish: The finish is eternal, echoing with notes of dried citrus peel, forest floor, and a final whisper of sweet tobacco and herbs. A truly humbling experience; this is not merely a wine, but a living artifact of time, worthy of the title "Great Emperor." — 7 days ago

Jay Kline

9.5

Paolo Bea dinner at Semo. All wines were prepared by opening and slow-ox, prior to service. Abbreviated notes due to the setting. The 2019 Cerrete is a veritable abyss: deep, dark, dense and mysterious. Dark cherry, licorice, blood and sneaky high tannin. So young. I thought this worked well with the venison. Almost impossible to believe this is 15.5%; everything is so balanced. Drink now through 2049. Bottle No. 161/9639 — a month ago

Pooneet K

9.2

One of the best langhe nebbiolos I’ve had recently, especially for a relatively reasonable price on the list at Leon’s. And a great pairing with pork braciole as well. Lots of fruit, but still quite refined, with great texture and acid. Quite pretty and delicious. — 4 days ago

Jose Lorenzo

9.6

A huge treat. Just exquisite. — 17 days ago

Joe DAscoli

9.4

In Milano

Young and just released but delicious

— a month ago

Jay Kline

9.3

Paolo Bea dinner at Semo. All wines were prepared by opening and slow-ox, prior to service. Abbreviated notes due to the setting. The 2017 Pipparello pours a garnet color with funky Montmorency cherry, red carnations, and balsamic notes. Wonderful structure and delicious with the quail. Drink now with patience through 2037. Bottle No. 642/9930 — a month ago

romo

9.0

Over the top heaviness, if that’s your thing. — 11 hours ago

romo

9.1

Still too hot, but manageable. — 11 hours ago

Chris Buggy

8.9

Ruby red, medium body-I challenge anyone to find a better $18 wine, perfect for everyday — 18 days ago

with Jennifer

Jay Kline

9.4

Paolo Bea dinner at Semo. All wines were prepared by opening and slow-ox, prior to service. Abbreviated notes due to the setting. The 2015 Arboreus pours the color and cloudiness of urine after a 3 day bender with little hydration. Notes of bruised and battered Apple, dried stone fruit, white and yellow flowers, mushroom, damp hay, and nuts. Low tannin on the palate and good acid. Drink now through 2030+. Bottle No. 3505/11970 — a month ago