Bruno Giacosa's 2000 Barbaresco Riserva Asili, which I tasted from magnum, was also magnificent. From bottle the 2000 is starting to fade a little, but in the big bottle it remains youthful, vibrant and impeccable. To be sure, the 2000 won't be terribly long-lived, but we caught it on a day when all the elements were singing. This was a great showing.

The nose alone on this is reason enough to buy this. Rich and decadent with dried meats, dried mushrooms, ripe fruits, all tied together by flowers and a light cigar box character. The palate isn't bad either, loads of dried fruits, full-bodied and rich. Total decadence with a wild character. Makes me smile.

The 2000 Barbaresco Riserva Asili is as it always has been; impeccably refined, nuanced and silky from start to finish. I have tasted (or drunk!) this wine at least a dozen times since it was first released. The bouquet shows the faintest signs of positive development while the fruit remains vibrant and beautifully articulated. I don’t see the 2000 Asili Riserva being one of the longest lived Red Labels, but it is unquestionably striking in its beauty. Anticipated maturity: 2011-2020. AG

Decadent. Starts with wonderfully fresh aromas of sliced plum, cedar, tobacco and meat, then evolves into floral and strawberry aromas. Full-bodied, with ultrafine, silky tannins and gloriously fresh, bright fruit. The refined finish goes on and on. One of the greatest wines ever from Bruno Giacosa. James Suckling