94/100 Kerin O'Keefe:
"Fragrant and firmly structured, it offers enticing scents of ripe berries, baking spices, tobacco, leather and a balsamic note. The firm palate consists of sour cherry, crushed raspberry, strawberry, cinnamon, clove and anise. A tannic backbone and lively acidity provide structure and balance. It has a surprisingly old structure given the warmth of the vintage.
A tradition of more than 150 years - Barolo "Mantoetto" DOCG.
Barolo Mantoetto is the only vineyard in Cherasco, specifically in the hills of San Michele, where the Mentone family has been producing Barolo since the 1880s.
This small vineyard of Nebbiolo is located on a cliff in the hamlet of San Michele, on the border of the territory of La Morra. This area is very sunny and enjoys a microclimate ideal for growing vines. The soil consists of limestone and clay, which makes for full-bodied wines with a varied bouquet.
The Nebbiolo grapes that produce the Barolo "Mantoetto" are composed of three genetic varieties: Lampia, Michet, Rosé. The Mantoetto is considered one of the oldest "Cru's" of Barolo.
Umberto Fracassi Ratti Mentone, the owner of the winery, believes that in order to produce an excellent wine, it is enough to ensure that the harvest is not damaged in the cellar. His philosophy is to remove only the weeds around the stump, and to prune carefully so that only the best grapes have a chance to be harvested. He also wants the wine to be aged for a minimum of 3.5 years in Slovenian oak. This is much more than the BAROLO DOCG law requires.
The Mantoetto is an extraordinary, brilliant, amaranth-colored wine with garnet. The nose is persistent, vinous and fruity with notes of plum, cherry, cherry jam and licorice."
Color: garnet red, brilliant, with orange reflections.
Composition: 100% Nebbiolo grape.
Bouquet: austere but velvety, pleasant, intense fragrance of violets and faded roses.
Palate: dry, full-bodied, robust but velvety with strong memories of "tar."
Nebbiolo grape varieties: "Lampia", "Michet" and "Rose".
Alcohol percentage: 14.5%.
More explanation about the producer: Umberto Fracassi
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