1997 Rocche Manzoni Barolo Vigna Cappella di Santo Stefano

Slow-o for 2 hours and then decanted at dinner. Classic structured Monforte profile with earthy tannins being an important and very tasty part of the experience.  Big dark cherry fruit with come-hither tar & roses. Sweet , rich florals on the nose. 

I believe that this wine was made in barrique.  The oak is subtle and fairly well integrated at this stage. Drank over the course of a couple of hours at dinner.  Could've benefited from more slow-o early on. 

Paired very very well with prime filet mignon and braised collard greens.  Overall this was a very enjoyable example from the '97 vintage.  It still has plenty of life left. 

Would be interesting to try a '96 and a '98 for comparison.  A '99 would probably be a bit young to drink now.