98 Points, Luca Maroni’s 'Annuario dei migliori vini italiani' (Annual Guide to Italian Wine)

Tasting Notes: Planted in 1914, Icardi’s organically cultivated vineyards lie between the two hilly southeastern ranges of the Langhe and Monferrato, home of Piedmont’s best vineyards. 100% Pinot Noir, the 25 year old vines lie in calcareous soil 300 meters above sea level with a northeast exposure. Aged in new French for 15 months, another 12 in bottle. “With fruit reminiscent of Pinot Noir from Burgundy, nuances of velvety rich fruit and tea spice softly enchant the palate. Seductive and enthralling tannins perfectly balance the fragrance of fruit and a subtle scent of oak. Powerful and majestic, this bold Pinot finishes with refined elegance and a note of aged balsamic, cherry, and vanilla. The best red of the year, the best Italian Pinot Noir... ever.