The rise of the Giacosa estate coincided with the skyrocketing fame of Barolo and Barbaresco in the 80s and 90s, but Bruno had been perfecting his craft since 1945—when he was only 15 years old. His mastery of terroir, his peerless palate, and his fierce campaigning were instrumental in propelling the wines of Piedmont into international prominence. Giacosa's career lasted a full eight decades, during which time his wines and his life revolutionized the world of Italian wine.
Without question, the '97 "Asili" is considered one of Giacosa's best bottlings ever. "Asili" is perhaps the most important single vineyard site in all of Barbaresco. It is the quintessence of the village, producing wines of tremendous elegance, freshness, and complexity. Giacosa purchased holdings in this cru in the 80s, and many of his expressions of this regal site are in the pantheon of fine Italian wine. Current vintages retail for about $250 per bottle. The legendary 1997 vintage is all but off the market, except for the small lot we have been saving for you today.
In the glass, the most delicate floral aromatics announce the coming of a truly special wine. Dried rose petal, fresh jasmine, perfumed violet. While the tannins have become silky over 26 years, the acidity is still strong and fresh in the form of supple red fruits and a touch of cedar box. It is, without exaggeration, one of the most delicious wines we've ever had the pleasure of opening.
We have 16 bottles available. Because we'd like these bottles to go to our Missoula customers, we will provide a 25% discount if you purchase three, and 15% if you purchase two. This is an opportunity to secure one of the world's truly elite wines—as a gift for a friend or family member, as a wine for a special occasion, or as an occasion unto itself.