Castello dei Rampolla - d'Alceo 2006

Robert Parker
This is the standout wine of this vertical tasting!

This is the standout wine of this vertical tasting. The Castello dei Rampolla 2006 d'Alceo remains incredibly vibrant in terms of mouthfeel, with a pretty vein of acidity that cuts across the mid-palate. The tannins are chalky, and that freshness is simply gorgeous. On the bouquet, you get earthy notes, dark fruit and wild plum. I came back to the wine later in my tasting, and although it maintained its distinctive freshness, spicy notes of barbecue smoke began to appear. In terms of farming, this estate is focused on soil health and uses cover crops (sometimes rolled between the rows) to add organic matter and create a moisture barrier. They have been following these vineyard practices for the past four years and are very happy with the results.

Falstaff

Wine Spectator

James Suckling

Rich and dark fruits with blackberries and fresh herbs on the nose. What intensity. Full-bodied with firm tannins and a spicy finish. Very powerful at the finish. Goes on and on. So much dark fruit here. Wonderful character. Hard not to drink, but better in three or four years. 85% Cabernet Sauvignon and 15% Petit Verdot.

Wine Enthusiast

D'Alceo is a drop dead gorgeous wine that oozes intensity, blackness, fruitiness, exotic spice and smoke. In the mouth, this beautifully executed super Tuscan is about as rich, smooth and opulent as they come. You'll love the lingering notes of mature berry, chocolate and espresso that drive the long, smooth finish.