The 1996 Dolcetto d'Alba, which had 28 days of skin contact, is an out-sized, tannic, monster Dolcetto that needs time in the bottle. Most Dolcettos are meant to be drunk within the first 2-3 years of life, but Conterno's need 2-3 years of cellaring! While the 1996 possesses elegance and lovely berry fruit, the tannin level is excruciatingly high. It will last for 10-12 years.The two most famous Conternos are Giacomo, who produces these wines, and his near-by neighbor, Aldo. Both are legends in Piedmont, with the wines of Giacomo Conterno about as traditional as can be found in our high-tech world. In contrast, Aldo Conterno's wines tend to be a synthesis in style between modern day techniques, and the more artisanal methods of the past.Importer: Vin Divino, Chicago, IL; tel. (773) 334-6700