Smoke, tar, roses, incense are some of the nuances that emerge as the1999 Costa Russi unfurls in the glass. A blast of dark black fruit follows as this muscular wine opens up in the glass. Costa Russi is often a much softer wine, but in 2009 it is decidedly brooding and intense. Here, too, the aromas and flavors are still quite primary. Darker notes of smoke, scorched earth, French oak and tar are layered into the finish. I imagine the barrels might had higher toast in the late 1990s than they do today. There is so much to like here.

Deep red-ruby. Reticent aromas of dark fruits, minerals and bitter chocolate. Vibrant, delineated and penetrating, with intense dark berry flavors. Finishes very long and lively, with a firm tannic spine and excellent thrust and grip.

Robert Parker's Wine Advocate 31/10/2003

The 1999 Costa Russi, penetrating, intense, and spicy with notes of saddle leather and chocolate, is ripe, round, and fresh in flavor with the customary elegance and satin of tannins which have long distinguished it. Anticipated maturity: 2005-2017.

Aromas of raw meat and ripe fruit, with hints of flowers. Full-bodied, with velvety tannins and a long, rich finish. This is outstanding, but proves that Barbaresco made outstanding- not great-wines in 1999. Best after 2006. 890 cases made, 220 cases imported. — JS