Conterno Fantino, Barolo DOCG (Piedmont, Italy) 2015

 This is always a big, powerful wine with bold oak that requires a lot of patience, and the 2015 rendition is certainly in keeping with that profile.  At least one can say that it isn’t deceptive, as its very dark, concentrated pigmentation announces its intentions before the glass is even hoisted.  Spicy, toasty oak is evident in the aromatics, but with lots of fruit to help the wine achieve balance.  On the palate, the first sensation is of a big blast of dense, muscular flavor, with the fruit again holding its own against the wood flavors and tannins.  When afforded 10 to 15 years to settle down and integrate, this estate’s Sori Ginestra can be stupendously good, and in the 2015 the only question is whether a touch of alcoholic heat will dissipate as the wine pulls together during the years ahead.