The 2011 Barolo Bussia Cicala shows a slightly warmer side to the Bussia cru, although in general I am very impressed with how this single vineyard has performed. You get subtle wood influences here, but the quality of fruit is on prime display. Black cherry, cassis and wild berry lift graciously from the bouquet. Heavier aromas of spice, resin and black licorice add a sense of gravitas and grounded vigor. Bussia Cicala is aged in Slovenian botte for 28 months and already shows excellent potential for a sure and steady evolution.
At the conclusion of my tasting of 2011 Barolo, I concluded that the Bussia vineyard in Monforte d'Alba (with a smaller piece in the Barolo township) performed consistently better in the hot 2011 vintage than any other in the appellation. It is also one of the largest vineyards at 299 hectares, although it is divided into a half-dozen subsections that are farmed by a large number of producers. In general, Bussia occupies a higher altitude with vines planted from 210 and 460 meters above sea level. It boasts excellent exposures with mostly southern and southwestern positioning. These factors have greatly contributed to the quality of fruit in 2011. Higher elevations helped to keep the vines cooler during the hottest moments of the summer. Vines are also well established in this vineyard with extensive root systems that help guard against drought conditions. Of the various estates that farm Bussia, Poderi Aldo Conterno shows exceptional results with this set of new releases. Collectors looking to put aside a few bottles of 2011 Barolo should start here.
Wine Spectator 2015 (93 Punkte) JG 2011
A spicy version, this red mingles woodsy cedar and sandalwood flavors with steeped cherry and leather notes. Shows plenty of grip on the back end, yet offers character, sweet fruit and a lengthy aftertaste. Best from 2019 through 2033. 125 cases imported.
–BS
Vinous Antonio Galloni 2015 (91 Punkte) JG 2011
Conterno's 2011 Barolo Cicala is decidedly ripe and flashy in this vintage, with exotic overtones and unusually jammy fruit. Dry, austere tannins clamp down through the mid-palate and finish, a sign of the hail that was an issue here in 2011. Hints of kirsch, sweet red cherry and plum struggle to open up in the glass, but the tannins are a bit too much today. It will be interesting to see how the Cicala develops, but today, the class and pedigree of this site does not come through fully.
James Suckling 2016 (95 Punkte)
This is fantastic with cedar, strawberry, walnut and mineral aromas and flavors. Ultra-fine tannins and a clean finish. Balanced and refined. Why wait? But will be even better in 2018.
