Angelo Gaja, Barolo, Sperss 1988

92 / 100 Robert Parker
Consistently one of the reference points for Italian wines, Angelo Gaja has fashioned some spectacular new releases. Gaja's long-time dream of owning vineyards in Barolo has finally been realized. No one who loves his wines will be disappointed with his first two Barolo releases. Moreover, by Gaja's standards, even the price is palatable. The 1988 Barolo-Sperss exhibits a deep color, tremendous extraction of fruit, and soft acids and tannins. It is a backward, unevolved, potentially exceptional wine. Tightly packed, full-bodied, and muscular, its wonderful tar, rose, and black-cherry-scented nose is just beginning to emerge. Drink it between 1995-2010.
Wine Advocate #87 Jun 1993

94 / 100 Wine Spectator
A modern Barolo that is very bright, lively and concentrated, a gorgeous wine with layers of plush violet-tinged blackberry, raspberry and plum flavors, hinting at tar and nutmeg on the finish. Well-integrated tannins and an element of sweet oak make this drinkable now. 1,400 cases made. –
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17.5 / 20 Jancis Robinson
Poured from double magnum. Deep ruby with orange rim. Dark fruit with a hint of cardamom skin, and still a little reluctant to fully open up. Real depth. Firm tannins with succulent fruit on the palate. The oak is evident, but intelligently done. Iron fist in a velvet glove.
http://www.jancisrobinson.com/tastings/search?keywords=Gaj..