quite mineral-driven

a 97% Shiraz cuvee sourced from 120- to 160-year-old vines with 3% finished Viognier added before bottling

This is like a block of stone at present and like the Chevalier

vinous palate with a lively and intense freshness supported by finely-judged acidity

The visit was capped off by previews of the 2004 Cristal and the as-yet-unreleased Cristal Rose

Cascina Fontana, Barolo Vintage:2009 quite mineral-drivenMario Fontana blends grapes from Castiglione Falletto and La Morra, the former bringing power, the latter softness. The wine spends three years in large barrels and concrete. Rose and jasmine aromas and a balanced palate display what Barolo lovers would term pure classicism.