One of the greats in a super rare magnum format...

99/100 James Suckling 

"The aromas of flowers, blackberries, and white truffles are superb. Full to medium body and ultra-fine tannins. The finish lasts for minutes. An amazing Cicala. Don't miss this."

"Aromas of dark berry, iris, menthol and a whiff of oak emerge on this vibrant wine. Firmly structured but loaded with finesse, the palate delivers ripe Marasca cherry, crushed black raspberry, vanilla, savory mineral and thyme alongside fine-grained tannins. A licorice note wraps around the tight finish. This is still primary so be sure to give it time to fully develop." 96/100 Kerin O'Keefe 

"Aromas of dark berry, iris, menthol and a whiff of oak emerge on this vibrant wine. Firmly structured but loaded with finesse, the palate delivers ripe Marasca cherry, crushed black raspberry, vanilla, savory mineral and thyme alongside fine-grained tannins. A licorice note wraps around the tight finish. This is still primary so be sure to give it time to fully develop." *Cellar Selection* (KO) 96/100 Wine Enthusiast

"Rich, dark flint ruby, light garnet sheen. Exciting nose with appealing mix of ripe fruit and savouriness, of cardamom and white pepper on one side, rich plum and raspberry fruit on the other. Blossoms magnificently on the palate, initially showing lots of juicy fruit, blackberry and plum, then opens up with taut, dense tannin, builds in many layers, very long finish, impressive, but will probably only show what it can do in five years." 98/100 Falstaff

The vineyard “Cicala” [meaning: balm-cricket] is about 40-45 years old and the vines are replanted from time to time. The main variety of Nebbiolo is Lampia and its rootstock is Rupestris du Lot. 

Poderi Aldo Conterno Barolo Cicala 2013 in magnum format is a powerful, traditional Barolo from one of the most revered crus in Bussia. This is a serious, age-worthy wine that marries deep fruit intensity with classic Nebbiolo structure, crafted for those who appreciate Barolo in its most authentic, no-compromise form. The Cicala parcel, with its mix of clay and limestone, is often considered the purest expression of the greater Bussia hillside, and this 2013 bottling captures that character with precision and depth.

In the glass, the 2013 Cicala shows a deep garnet core with brick-tinged edges, already hinting at its evolution yet retaining notable concentration. The nose is focused and refined, with aromas of dark cherry, dried rose petals, licorice, tobacco and crushed herbs, layered over notes of tar, leather and a chalky mineral edge typical of Bussia. On the palate, this Barolo is intense and firmly structured, offering plenty of ripe red and black fruits—maraschino cherry, wild berries and plum—wrapped in tightly knit, fine yet assertive tannins. Savory nuances of dried mushroom, cigar box, earth and spice emerge with air, underscoring its depth and complexity. The 14.5% alcohol is well integrated, adding body and warmth without overshadowing the freshness. This is a wine built for the long haul: in magnum especially, it has excellent aging potential, with the 2013 vintage likely to evolve beautifully over 15–25 years from the vintage, gaining further aromatic complexity and polishing its tannins over time.