Damilano, Barolo (Piedmont, Italy) “Lecinquevigne” 2010

($35): Rarely have I read as much unanimity regarding the stature of a vintage as I have concerning the 2010 Barolo.  And now, having tasted a fair number of them myself, I agree — it’s a consistently great vintage.  Damilano is a well-known producer who bottles several single vineyard Barolos, which are captivating in 2010.  What’s especially exciting to me about this one, which is not from a single vineyard, but rather a blend of wines from five separate vineyards, is the price in relation to its quality.  It’s classic Barolo with a floral component underpinned by a hint of tarry bitterness.  Accessible now if you’re willing to decant it and let it breath for an hour or so, it will certainly be more complex five years down the road.  A great buy from a great vintage.
90 Michael Apstein Feb 10, 2015