1964 Giacomo Borgogno & Figli Barolo Riserva
In the grand history of Barolo, collectors speak of certain vintages with a special reverence. The year 1964 is undeniably
Producer
Borgogno
I have reviewed three wines from Borgogno, from the 1964 to 1978 vintages, all from Barolo. All are Nebbiolo. Scores range from 92 to 94, averaging 93; the highest is the 1964 Giacomo Borgogno & Figli Barolo Riserva (94 points). Borgogno also features in one journal article on this site.
Founded in 1761, Giacomo Borgogno & Figli is one of the oldest and most historic names in Barolo. Located in the heart of the village of Barolo, it long served as a wine of royal dinners and Italian unification, and it is famous for its library of older vintages, cellared at the estate for decades before release.
Under the Farinetti family, owners since 2008, the winery has returned to strictly traditional methods: fermentation in concrete and long ageing in large Slavonian oak botti. Its crus include Cannubi and Liste, and the No Name Nebbiolo, a declassified Barolo, has become a rebellious staple.
The library releases show what that patience means. The 1964 Riserva, from one of the great classic vintages, has resolved into a seamless, ethereal texture. The 1978 Riserva, from the greatest vintage of its era, is still powerful and vigorous, with tar, iron and dark fruit, while the 1976, from a difficult year, has aged into something delicate and savory, full of dried autumn leaves and spice.
New cellar purchased: Time Capsule from the Langhe
We just secured a cellar that frankly shouldn’t exist. This is a rare glimpse into the golden era of traditional Barolo, featuring pristine verticals of Bartolo Mascarello (including the legendary 1961 and 1978 Magnums), Bruno Giacosa’s Red Labels, and Giuseppe Rinaldi. Plus, we found a “miracle” parcel of 1976 & 1978 Borgogno Riserva—perfectly aged history at an unbeatable price. These are not just wines; they are survivors.
New cellar purchased: Time Capsule from the Langhe Read Post »
1978 Giacomo Borgogno & Figli Barolo Riserva
If 1976 is the history lesson, 1978 is the legend itself. Universally hailed as the greatest vintage of the era,
1976 Borgogno Barolo Riserva
Borgogno is famous for its library, but stocks are finally dwindling. We managed to grab the last significant chunk of