A rich, sensual tapestry of dark plums, cherries, smoke, incense, tar and licorice emerges from the Conterno Barolo Riserva Monfortino 2005. Exotic, rich and layered, the 2005 boasts gorgeous depth and a sensual enveloping personality. I am quite amazed at how the 2005 has developed since I last tasted it, in November 2011. The once-firm tannins have never been more elegant than they are today. That said, as good as the 2005 is, it doesn’t quite have the thrill factor of the very best vintages. 96/100 (10.2012) - Wine Advocate