Similarly to the 2021 Dagromis, this strikes me as being rather penetrating and almost sharp thanks to highish acidity, but to be lacking a little fruit presently. My guess is that, like for the Dagromis, it’s only a matter of my having tasted these two wines in an awkward phase of their development. But the foundational elements of a very good to great Nebbiolo wine seem to be in place, so I am hoping that the 2021 Conteisa will be showing beautifully in another six months or so, hence the ‘+’ sign on my score (the ‘+’ means the wine might be worthy of 2-3 points more in the future). Drinking window: 2029-2040.
“A little shy initially, the Gaja 2021 Barolo Conteisa will certainly require more time in bottle to continue its slow evolution. The bouquet is powerful and rich, showing beautiful Nebbiolo layering with wild berry, forest floor, blue flower and sambuca. In terms of mouthfeel, it delivers an impressive level of power with firm tannins that are almost glossy in texture thanks to their finely polished nature.”
The bright red 2021 Barolo Conteisa is highly expressive and ramps up the volume on the nose. It makes a statement with its aromas of wild spice, redcurrants, cherries, ripe tannins, and intense ripe orange fruit. It has a lot of clarity but offers dramatic intensity and completeness, with mouthwatering acidity, angular tannins, and a fantastically long finish. Flirting with perfection, this is an exceptional wine all around to return to over the coming decades. 2025-2045
The stunning 2021 Conteisa is classy and fragrant, opening with heady aromas of iris, violet, spice and menthol. Showing great intensity, the full-bodied, elegantly structured palate features ripe Marasca cherry, crushed raspberry, orange zest and dark culinary spice alongside present but well-integrated, fine-grained tannins. It's well balanced, with bright acidity. Drink 2030–2041.
“A dark and complex Barolo with fresh violets, black cherries, pomegranates, blood oranges, wax and graphite on the nose. Full-bodied, it shows density and concentration, with refined tannins, flowing fruit and refreshing acidity. Toasty, super-refined finish. Drink or hold.”
