2016 Poderi Aldo Conterno Barolo Cicala

Located in Monforte d'Alba, Poderi Aldo Conterno is considered one of the finest producers in the region. The son of legendary producer Giacomo Conterno, Aldo formed his own estate in 1969 and was inspired by the modernist techniques of Angelo Gaja. Aldo sadly passed away in May 2012 and the estate is now run by his three sons, Franco, Stefano and Giacomo. They tend 25 hectares of vines including three cru vineyards on the famed Bussia slope in Monforte d'Alba. These three vineyard sites, Cicala, Colonello and Romirasco are the flagship wines from the estate though the entire range from the entry level Bussia Soprana is superb.

Other Reviews....
The Poderi Aldo Conterno 2016 Barolo Bussia Cicala offers a ripe fruit profile with layers of menthol and medicinal herb. The finish is beautiful, long and chalky, and you don't get as much alcohol in the Cicala (compared to Romirasco). The fruit is dried and streamlined, and this wine does show good promise for aging. The tannins are beautiful, coating your teeth and palate with no bitter edge. About 6,000 bottles were made.
96 points
Monica Larner - Wine Advocate (July 2020)

The 2016 Barolo Cicala opens with effusive aromatics laced with all sorts of exotic spice and floral notes. On the palate, the 2016 is much less forthcoming, though. Then again, this is Cicala, a wine that is often unyielding in its youth. It will be interesting to see where the 2016 goes in the coming years. It certainly has potential. Time in the glass brings out hints of iron, chalk, white pepper and dried herbs that are so typical of this Bussia site.
92+ points
Antonio Galloni - Vinous

A really exotic red, showing burnt orange-peel to the dried-strawberry, chocolate-powder and light toasted-oak character. It’s full-bodied and chewy, yet ever so polished. A wild wine. Drink after 2022 and onwards.
98 points
James Suckling

Alluring aromas and flavors of cherry and raspberry are deftly accented by balsamic notes of eucalyptus, juniper and sage. Sandalwood, iron and tobacco elements chime in as this finishes long and firm. Best from 2023 through 2045.
96 points
Bruce Sanderson - Wine Spectator