Marcarini Barolo Brunate 1998

91-93 points Stephen Tanzer (International Wine Cellar): "Deep red. Pure, fruit-driven aromas of redcurrant, tobacco and licorice, along with a strong floral component and a balsamic suggestion of incense; atypically open for this wine at such an early stage. Bigger and denser in the mouth than La Serra; more powerfully structured and even less forthcoming today. Comes across as richer but less elegant. Finishes with big, broad, ripe tannins. (NovDec 2000)"

92+ points John Gilman (View From the Cellar): "I had not tasted the 1998 Brunate from Marcarini since the fall of 2008, and I was very happy that this underrated wine was included in our vertical tasting past April. This is a lovely vintage for this wine and one that will drink well from a fairly early age, as it is already showing some secondary layers of complexity in its aromatic constellation of red and black cherries, a touch of nutskin, a bit of chocolate, gentle meatiness, fresh oregano and a road tar. On the palate the wine is deep, full-bodied, pure and very well-balanced, with a fine core, ripe tannins and lovely length and grip on the youthful, but blossoming finish. With time in decanter, this wine is very approachable today, but it really deserves a half dozen more years in the cellar to really reach its apogee. A lovely wine. 2020-2050. (Jul/Aug 2014)"

92 points Antonio Galloni (Vinous): "Huge evolved nose of wet earth and tar, opening to show notes of leather, and eucalyptus. This is powerful, dense wine with flavors of dark fruit and licorice and tremendous length, finishing with chewy tannins. A very beautiful and complete wine. Drink: 2013+. (Dec 2004)"