2012 Paolo Scavino, Barolo, Bric del Fiasc, Piedmonte, Italy.
Scavino’s Fiasco Cru is from Castiglione Falletto, first made in 1978, though it has been in the family since 1921, it is one of the most sought after wines in Piedmont and the 2012 is lovely, elegant and textured capturing the soul of Barolo. It was an honor to meet and taste with Elisa Scavino, all of the 2012 and 2013 Nebbiolo wines were stunningly pure and detailed from the basic Langhe Nebbiolo to the gorgeous Bric del Fiasc, this was one of the best young set of Barolo I’ve tasted in years! The 2012 Bric del Fiasc starts with a deep perfume of red rose petal, mineral and subtle cedar and a mix of red and blue fruits leading to an expansive palate with amazing mouth feel and textural pleasure. The layers of black cherry, damson plum, tangy currant and lush strawberry linger for days along with sweet tannin, hints of tar, minty herb, anise and saline rich stones. A light earthiness and fresh personality highlight the energy and complex nature of this beautiful Nebbiolo that is showing remarkably gracious, but should be wonderful for decades, this is impressive wine, a world class Barolo that pleases with finesse, though has an underlying power and terroir force that drives it. The Paolo Scavino Bric del Fiasc should be coveted and cellared, it is a glorious wine, and if you want to grab a value, you should search out the Barolo normale, which is also extremely lovely and retails for $45, these 2012’s are classic styled Barolo and are incredibly seductive!
($98 Est.) 94 Points, grapelive