CH’NG Poh Tiong
Italian Wine Ambassador Jessica Tan with dinner guests.
Le Ginestre is a small family-owned producer of Barolo which wine emphasizes elegance and finesse.
Several of their wines – including the single-vineyard Sottocastello di Novello – were showcased at a dinner/tasting on 18 December 2019 in Singapore by their distributor.
Leading the event was Jessica Tan. Although she holds a master’s degree in computer science from the United States, Tan brushed that aside to focus on being a wine journalist and founded a blog called Singapoured at www.SingaPoured.com. An Italian wine specialist, Tan is an Italian Wine Ambassador of Vinitaly International Academy.
Here are some of best wines.
Le Ginestre Barbera d’Alba 2016 & 2017
Tasted side by side in that order, 2016 is the lighter vintage, the delicate red fruit stalked by freshness. The younger 2017 vintage has an extra layer of ripeness, the red/blue fruit more intense but no less fresh. The tannins too has more richness but are in good balance with the medium-plus-ish fruit.
Le Ginestre Barolo Sottocastello di Novello 2016
The vineyard lies “Sotto Castello” or “below the castle” in the village of Novello. At an average altitude of 400 metres, the excellent south and south-east exposure captures more light and warmth. Planted between 1999 and 2002, drainage is equally excellent because of the deep limestone soil. Cherry fruit in perfect harmony with the medium-rich, elegant tannins and the flourish of freshness on the finish. Nebbiolo refinement in the same sip. The official release of the Barolo 2016 vintage will take place on 1 January 2020.
Le Ginestre Barolo Sottocastello di Novello 2006
Liquorice, smoky, autumn leaves and a hint of sandalwood. Quite evolved. Drinking deliciously now.
