While this effort from Conterno-Fantino has all the power one expects from the site, there is a level of polish and elegance one rarely sees from Ginestra- an almost Burgundian sense of understatement where the cedar, dry earth, cinnamon and anise flavors reveal themselves with rather more restraint and understatement.  They form a background to fruit that just pops out from the frame.  With the frame of a gymnast, it’s built for both power and grace. ‘Ravishing’ was just one of my descriptors!  And it’s a wonderful drink even now! But, true to its Ginestra roots, we’re betting the 2019 Conterno-Fantino Barolo Vigna Sori Ginestra is going to be a very long term proposition indeed!  Very highly recommended. 

Vinous: The 2019 Barolo Ginestra Vigna Sorì Ginestra is one of the most elegant wines I have ever tasted from Conterno-Fantino and the Ginestra cru. Ample and broad, with huge intensity, the Sorì Ginestra is stunning. All the Ginestra signatures come through in the glass. The 2019 is deep and vibrant, yet also wonderfully fresh. There is a creaminess in the 2019 that is impossible to miss. This is so impressive. 96 points

James Suckling: Notes of cherries, bergamot, lilac and pine nuts with hints of bark and licorice. Full and wide with compact but ultra-fine tannins that are evenly distributed across the palate. Very long and deep. Refined and opulent. Well-crafted. Try after 2027. 96 points

Decanter:  A great Barolo with an intoxicating nose of dried violet, almost potpourri, with intense cherry and pomegranate aromas. The elegance and intensity of Ginestra stands out here with incredibly well handled, velvety tannins, lifted acidity, and a super-savoury character. The vibrancy on the finish combined with its cleansing, elegant style ensure it's one for the long haul. 95 points

Wine Spectator: This red exudes ripe cherry, raspberry, plum, floral and wild herb flavors wrapped in an embrace of toasty oak. Vibrant and intense, with superb balance and a long, fruit- and underbrush-filled aftertaste. Best from 2027 through 2047. 95 points