Bruno Giacosa Nebbiolo d'Alba Valmaggiore 2016 750ml

Wine Advocate #237, Jun 30, 2018 by Monica Larner
I am a huge fan of this vineyard site in the Roero region. The 2016 Nebbiolo d'Alba Vigna Valmaggiore serves to encourage and confirm my enthusiasm. The Valmaggiore vineyard is home to dangerously steep rows that make farming extremely laborious. The effort is worth it, especially when you consider those delicate and nuanced berry aromas that so beautifully permeate the bouquet. Wild strawberry, cassis and blueberry are followed by pressed violet and bitter almond. Nor is the mouthfeel to be underestimated, as it provides ample structure and extra crunch on the tonic finish. This wine was bottled just three weeks prior to my tasting and is developing handsomely.

The knowledge, passion and wisdom that Bruno Giacosa brings to his work as producer of fine wines is the fruit of the dedication of three generations of wine makers. The family interest in vine cultivation began during the constant search for the best vineyards from which to buy the grapes necessary for wine making. The next step, naturally, was to acquire some of the same vineyards for the family business and the one after that, to specialise in the Nebbiolo grape and the grand wines made from it. That Bruno Giacosa is a perfectionist is obvious from the meticulousness with which he applies his craft.
Over decades Giacosa's reputation for perfectionism became continuously reaffirmed and the wines "stylistically consistent and painstakingly crafted". Known for his exacting standards, Giacosa will not bottle any wine if the vintage does not meet his scrutinous quality standards, and the vintage will be sold off in bulk as wine that is termed sfuso. Decanter estimates Bruno Giacosa among Italy's First Growths
Bruno Giacosa suffered a stroke in January 2006 which left him unable to work at the winery though he since made a full recovery. Gradually, Giacosa's daughter Bruna Giacosa, has taken over an increased leadership role of the firm.

Meats, Lamb