94
points
Fratelli Casetta 2007 Vigna Case Nere Nebbiolo (Barolo)
An impressive effort from a boutique producer, this gorgeous Barolo delivers deep complexity in the form of forest fruit, white cherry, wet earth, wild mushroom, licorice and drying mineral tones. The mouthfeel is tight and elegant, and you won’t find a better match to creamy risotto with porcini mushrooms. Drink in 5–10 years.
— M.L.
(9/1/2011)
93
points
Fratelli Casetta 2004 Riserva Nebbiolo (Barolo)
This Riserva Barolo from the La Morra subzone opens with a surprisingly bright and concentrated color, followed by rich aromas of cherry, black fruit, exotic spice and smoke. There are dusty layers of crushed stone as well and the wine fades long with polished tannins.
— M.L.
(12/1/2010)
91
points
Fratelli Casetta 2006 Vigna Case Nere Nebbiolo (Barolo)
A sensation of polished black stone with cherry, leather, tar and spice opens the nose of this beautifully elegant Barolo made with fruit sourced from the Case Nere vineyard. The wine is soft, modern and plush with a rich velvety finish and a savory end note.
— M.L.
(12/1/2010)
90
points
Fratelli Casetta 2005 Riserva Nebbiolo (Barbaresco)
This Riserva Barbaresco from the warm 2005 vintage delivers subtle hints of wild berry and cassis backed by white truffle and earthy tones. At the far back are aromas of dried beef or smoked ham and the wine would pair well with veal in cream sauce. The acidity and tannins should keep your palate refreshed.
— M.L.
(12/1/2010)
90
points
Fratelli Casetta 2005 Riserva Nebbiolo (Barolo)
This bright Riserva opens with floral, soapy notes of church incense, Spanish cedar, dried orange peel and polished river stone. It’s a feminine wine with power and intensity on the close due in part to the immense firmness of the tannins.
— M.L.
(9/1/2011)
89
points
Fratelli Casetta 2007 Suri Barbera (Barbera d'Alba)
Here’s a bright and sweet-smelling Barbera d’Alba with cherry and cassis nuances followed by cinnamon, vanilla and spice. It offers a smooth, silky texture and this winemaker has done a very good job of taming Barbera’s sometimes aggressive acidity.
— M.L.
(9/1/2010)
89
points
Fratelli Casetta 2008 Nebbiolo (Barolo)
Expressive and bright, this has raw fruit and cherry aromas followed by touches of barbecue and teriyaki. The mouthfeel is plush, rich and slightly chewy, and the tight tannins need a few more years to soften.
— M.L.
(9/1/2012)