Castello dei Rampolla - d'Alceo 2019

Robert Parker Wine Advocate

This is a classic beauty. The 2019 d'Alceo, made with 85% Cabernet Sauvignon and 15% Petit Verdot, is dark and enriched, but magically, it is never heavy or bulky. It carries its weight with feather-like grace backed by dry tannins and lovely fruit layering. There is blackcurrant, kirsch, blackberry liqueur, exotic spice, black rose and crushed stone. That mineral note stands out like a filigree of shiny silver stitched through the wine's rich, velvety texture. Production is 13,749 bottles and 200 magnums.

This is a stunning set of wines from Castello dei Rampolla, featuring two excellent vintages: 2019 and 2021. Farming is organic and biodynamic at this celebrated estate.

Falstaff

Impenetrable, rich ruby-violet. Opens with appealing notes of cassis and blackberries, with some smoke and mint. Grippy, finely meshed tannins at the core, opens up in many layers, dark berryish fruit, still needs a few years.

James Suckling

Blackcurrants, fresh flowers, and blue berries with sandalwood. Medium-bodied with very fine tannins and a fresh finish. Very fine, focused and bright. Cabernet sauvignon and petit verdot. Best after 2025.

The Wine Front