1998 Bruno Giacosa "Asili" Barbaresco

“Giacosa's 1998 Barbaresco Asili needs 4-5 years of cellaring. It exhibits a dark ruby color along with a big, sweet nose of dried herbs, cedar, tobacco, tar, and red fruits. Opulent on the attack, with moderately high tannin as well as good underlying acidity, this is a fragrant effort for Giacosa. (RP)” (10/2001)

“Amber-edged medium red. Very sweet but vibrant nose combines cherry, redcurrant, marzipan, brown spices and a whiff of game. Wonderfully sweet and sappy in the mouth, with perfectly integrated acidity giving the wine compelling vinosity. Lifted by a strong floral perfume. Finishes with firm, fine tannins and terrific length. Another '98 with a near-perfect balance of fruit and acid. (ST) 92+” (11/2002)

“Ripe strawberry and raspberry character on the nose. Full-bodied, with silky tannins and lots of attractive fresh fruit. There's an underlying mushroom and raw meat character as well. Needs more bottle age. (JS)” (12/2008)