Wines Barolo Giacomo Conterno - Monfortino Riserva - 1990

Viniou Reviews

Giacomo Conterno's Barolo Monfortino Riserva 1990 stands as one of the most iconic expressions of Nebbiolo, Italy’s noble grape. Produced from carefully selected fruit sourced from the highly esteemed vineyards of Monforte d’Alba, this wine embodies the very essence of traditional Barolo. 1990 was a remarkable vintage in the region, yielding wines of structure, generosity, and longevity. The winemaking at Conterno is legendary for its rigour and respect for tradition: the Monfortino Riserva is vinified in large wooden vats, followed by extensive ageing—often over seven years—in large Slavonian oak casks, allowing the wine to develop extraordinary complexity and depth.

Barolo hails from the Piedmont region, nestled in the north-west of Italy. The rolling hills of the Langhe, with their calcareous clay soils and a unique microclimate shaped by cold Alpine air and Mediterranean warmth, provide ideal conditions for Nebbiolo. These factors combined with centuries-old winemaking traditions contribute to the profound character of Barolo. The area has long been revered as the kingdom of Nebbiolo, and Barolo itself is often called the “King of Wines”. The history and meticulous viticulture of houses like Giacomo Conterno have cemented the appellation’s prestige on the world stage.

Such a powerful and regal Barolo merits considered food matches. The wine’s robust tannic structure, earthy undertones, and aromas of tar, roses, dried cherries, and truffle find harmony with dishes like braised beef cheek, venison stew, or slow-cooked lamb. Traditional Piedmontese fare—such as brasato al Barolo or tajarin with white truffle—further elevates the experience. Mature hard cheeses like Parmigiano Reggiano or old Castelmagno also work beautifully.

For optimum enjoyment, decant the wine at least two hours before serving to allow it to fully open up. The perfect serving temperature is 17–18°C. Such a monumental Barolo deserves patient contemplation and will reward generously, especially when served in large, tulip-shaped glasses.