2009 d'Alceo Vino da Tavola Castello dei Rampolla

The 'd'Alceo' is a another magnificent offering from Castello dei Rampolla in 2009. Composed from Cabernet Sauvignon and Petit Verdot, it delivers pretty aromas of fresh blackberries, dark cherries, leather, earth, floral and a touch of spice. This possesses a beautiful soft, velvety texture with great finesse, giving it a wonderful sense of class and sophistication. It remains beautifully balanced all the way through the long silky finish where it folds in some more dark fruits and spices. Today, this can be accessible with extended air, but ultimately it will be at its best after some time in the cellar. (Best 2016-2030).

96P+: The 2009 D'Alceo is quite a bit firmer and more structured than the Sammarco. An exotic melange of dark cherries, plums, grilled herbs, cassis and new leather emerges from the glass, backed up by tons of structure. Over the last few months, the 2009 d'Alceo has softened a bit, releasing expressive, floral aromatics and brighter shades of fruit. This is a wonderfully deep, resonant d'Alceo. The 2009 will drink well with minimum cellaring within the context of prior vintages. According to Luca di Napoli, the trick to 2009 was harvesting on the early side. Judging by this effort, I would say Rampolla nailed the vintage. 2019 - 2039.