Barbaresco

With a few hours in the air, Albesani begins to reveal the inner sweetness and fragrance so typical of wines from this Neive vineyard. Sweet dried cherries, rose petals, kirsch, cinnamon, orange peel and sweet tobacco open up with a little coaxing. Albesani clearly has a lot to offer for those who can wait for the initially prominent tannins to soften. SUPERIORE.DE

"The 2018 Barbaresco Albesani is another great wine from Roagna. Crushed red berry fruit, mint, tobacco, orange peel, spice and crushed rocks open up beautifully with a little coaxing. Deep and powerful, but also wonderfully restrained, the Albesani has a lot to offer. It is also one of the few wines from this vintage that certainly needs time." Vinous

"Round and opulent, this red features cherry, raspberry, rose, menthol, tobacco and mineral flavors. Dense and firmly structured, with superb balance and terrific length. Combines power and finesse." Wine Spectator

Do you know the small vineyard Basarin near Neive? A bright ruby garnet awaits you and a wine from a particularly beautiful vintage: on the nose, a cornucopia of aromas of wild sour cherry, herbs, some liquorice and tobacco. Firm and very clearly structured on the palate, muscular and yet with an elegance that never loses control due to its power. Basarin is a highly energetic and precise Nebbiolo that reveals its complexity only with some patience and aeration. The neighbouring terroir Neive shows itself with distinguished elegance and marries harmoniously with the volume and weight typical of the site - and in a depth that only vines over 50 years old can produce. SUPERIORE.DE

"A dense red, solidly built and displaying mint, eucalyptus, vanilla and resin flavors, while berry and cherry fruit elements struggle to emerge. Despite its freshness and length, this is locked up tight." Wine Spectator

"The Barbaresco Basarin 2020 with fruit from the village of Neive is a generous and full-bodied wine with soft fruit tones and lots of powerful cherry. Sottimano Maggiore likes to work with ambient yeasts and submerged cap. This is a fruit-driven Nebbiolo from a warm vintage. It shows above average concentration, but not much, and feels quite soft and supple on the palate." Wine Advocate

"The Barbaresco Basarin 2020 is a wine of pure and perfect sensuality. For a young Barbaresco that has just been bottled, the Basarin has great balance. On the palate, a firework of dark red fruits, spices, rose petals, mint and blood orange unfolds, followed by a powerful kick of Nebbiolo acidity and tannin. The harvestmust be patient. This heady, explosive Barbaresco is shaping up to be a real gem." Vinous

"Aromas of dried cherries, cocoa, cinnamon and bark with hints of dried rose petals. Medium to full-bodied and structured with taut but fine tannins that linger. Shows tension and depth. Long lingering finish." James Suckling

The Sottimano winery has five vineyard sites, with the Pajoré site near Treiso having the poorest soils of all. These wines are therefore more elegant and ripe. Pajoré is a super-classic, explosive wine, with tremendous depth and character. Although it has a lot of breadth and texture, it remains light on its feet. Lavender, mint, liquorice and purple berry fruit are beguiling and wonderfully vibrant in the glass. Pajorè is a spicy, elegant and sweet Nebbiolo that is fine yet covers the mouth well - and we are always impressed by its lovely salty mouthfeel. SUPERIORE.DE

"A lithe yet firmly structured red marked by vanilla, resin, cherry, strawberry, floral and underbrush aromas and flavors. Shows fine balance in the end, with the fruit holding up against a cadre of serious tannins. Resonant finish." Wine Spectator

"The Sottimano 2020 Barbaresco Pajoré is a dense and elegant wine with a medium weight structure. The bouquet is very expressive with dried cherries, blackcurrants, iron ore and blue flowers. Sottimano manages to produce very straightforward and precise wines, and that is certainly the message of this wine from the Pajoré vineyard in the municipality of Treiso. It finishes on a dry, chalky note." Wine Advocate

"This wine shows subtle aromas of cherries and wild strawberries with dried sage, lavender, nutshells and cloves. Medium to full body with a firm backbone of compact tannins. A little chewy yet juicy with notes of citrus and walnuts on the finish." James Suckling

"The Barbaresco Pajorè 2020 is a textbook wine from this site. The Pajorè is a wine of depth and stature that impresses right from bottling. Dark cherry, plum, lavender, spice and menthol race across the palate as the 2020 proves its obvious pedigree. Time in the glass brings out a whole range of spicy, balsamic nuances that continue into the lingering finish. The 2020 is developing into a truly great wine." Vinous

"From a vineyard in Treiso, with 50-60 year old vines, a Barbaresco of great finesse. Arbutus on the nose, with notes of eucalyptus and white pepper, rounded off with hints of wild mint. On the palate, iodine-salty tannins, fruity and mentholated finish." Luca Gardini

With a few hours in the air, Albesani begins to reveal the inner sweetness and fragrance so typical of wines from this Neive vineyard. Sweet dried cherries, rose petals, kirsch, cinnamon, orange peel and sweet tobacco open up with a little coaxing. Albesani clearly has a lot to offer for those who can wait for the initially prominent tannins to soften. SUPERIORE.DE

"The 2019 Barbaresco Albesani is a haunting, gorgeous wine. Sweet macerated cherry, kirsch, dried herbs, mint, leather and orange peel lift from the glass. A Barbaresco of exotic beauty and elegance, the 2019 Albesani has so much to offer. It's not an immediate wine, yet its charm can't be denied. This deceptively mid-weight Barbaresco just needs time to be at its best. I especially admire its inner sweetness. Cinnamon, dried red cherry, menthol and cedar linger on the beguiling, structured finish." Vinous

Gallina comes from a steep, sandy vineyard, similar to the Asili site, but with less limestone, which gives it more roundness and fullness. Full bouquet of sweet tobacco, cedar wood, liquorice and dried herbs. A soft, sweet, red fruit combines with the typical Roagna austerity in an exciting way on the palate to create an impressive complexity and length. It will only reveal its true elegance in a few years' time. SUPERIORE.DE

"The 2019 Barbaresco Gallina is a very pretty, almost ethereal wine for a site that often yields more fruity Barbaresco. The aromatics are especially open at this stage, even with its recent bottling. Silky tannins and mid-weight structures are the signatures. Dark red cherry, leather, spice and menthol linger on the sublime finish. It would certainly not be a crime to drink this on the younger side." Vinous

Roagna's Barbaresco Pajè already has a great need to communicate in its youth and shows itself to be open-minded and with multi-layered flavours, full-bodied and harmoniously balanced. An extraordinary pleasure for the next 20 years. SUPERIORE.DE

"Bright ruby red in colour. Pajè unleashes itself in unerring volleys of raspberries and sour cherries as well as laurels and walnut shells, its shimmering, ethereal top note reminiscent of tarmac roads on the midsummer horizon. Mild spices such as cloves, black pepper and dried cherries are a recurring theme, like the title melody of a monumental soundtrack. Mercilessly dry on the palate with a beguiling extract sweetness. Grown on vines over 80 years old, the fruit and spice notes on the nose are accurately reflected on the palate and are encased in ripe, tightly woven tannins like Kevlar. Complex and multi-layered, it flows over the palate with a silky feel, almost floating, and its fruity, ethereal finish is almost weightless with an extra-long finish. Large glasses and time are the weapons of choice." Sebastian Bordthäuser (Sommelier und Wein-Journalist)

"The 2019 Barbaresco Pajè is a step up from the first Barbarescos in this range. Its depth is apparent even from the color. Deeply pitched spice notes meld into a core of dark-toned fruit. Leather, incense, licorice and scorched earth follow, adding layers of dimension. This fabulous edition of the Pajè is notable for its textural resonance and overall presence." Vinous

The Sottimano winery has five vineyard sites, with the Pajoré site near Treiso having the poorest soil of all. These wines are therefore more elegant and mature. Pajoré is a super-classic, explosive wine, endowed with enormous depth and character. Although it has plenty of breadth and texture, it remains light on its feet. Lavender, mint, liquorice and purple berry fruits are beguiling and wonderfully lively in the glass. Pajorè is a spicy, elegant and sweet Nebbiolo that is fine yet covers the mouth well - and we are always impressed by its lovely savoury mouthfeel. SUPERIORE.DE

"Just mid ruby. Salty and savoury, the minerals jumping out of the glass, and with hints of morocco leather and raspberry. Lots of suave, ripe red fruit on the palate and with a firm structure. Needs at least another year in bottle even if the fruit indicates it is ready now. Very long and the tannins still need to settle." Jancis Robinson

"A floral and fruity journey of discovery awaits you with every sip of this enchanting wine. Tantalising aromas whisk you away to a garden in bloom, where fresh wild cherries play amidst swirling rose petals and fragrant herbs. On the palate, ripe red fruits combine with sweet spices, fine tannins and a lively acidity that keeps every sip lively and balanced." Wine Enthusiast

"The 2021 Barbaresco Pajorè is a wild, exotic wine that combines the intensity of the vintage with plenty of classic structure. It is rich and full-bodied, but the Pajorè is quite closed today, as it almost always is at this stage. Sage, lavender, menthol, liquorice and a whole range of balsamic influences lead to a strong, brooding finish." Vinous

Barbaresco Asili 2017 is a stunningly beautiful wine from Ceretto. Here the energy and tension are simply stunning. Bright red cherry fruit and floral nuances abound in this taut, crystalline Barbaresco. It is already a gem of a wine, although further years of ageing will serve it well. Ceretto's classic, bursting with liveliness. SUPERIORE.DE

"Fresh cut flowers, mint and sweet red berry fruits are all nicely combined. A touch of nervousness lingers in the wine's feel, but that won't be a problem in a few years." Vinous

"A fruity, round Barbaresco with dried strawberry and cherry character and undertones of watermelon. It is medium to full-bodied with polished tannins and a flavourful finish. I like the slightly bitter citrus note at the end of the palate." James Suckling

"Sparkling, medium dense ruby garnet. Finely marked nose with notes of fresh raspberry, rosehip and plum. Juicy and clear on the palate, opens with lots of fine-meshed tannin, salty and long, very elegant and surprisingly fresh." Falstaff

"The fruit comes from a 1.3 hectare site with classic marl soils of Sant'Agata. Besides the dark fruits, much of the bouquet is reminiscent of gravel and iron rust, with other area-specific aromas characteristic of Nebbiolo in its naked state. There is also a hint of earthiness, thanks to the somewhat loose, open-knit tannins. Grated truffles, dried blackberries and pressed roses round things out." Wine Advocate

"From the very first moments of fermentation of this wine, we realise every year that we are dealing with a very high expression of Nebbiolo. The MGA Albesani is a very beautiful vineyard in the municipality of Neive with an ideal orientation and perfect altitude. From there comes a rich, elegant, sometimes austere wine that combines its great appeal with excellent ageing potential." Franco Massolino

Barbaresco Albesani shows all the breadth and resonance that is so typical of this famous hillside vineyard in Neive. Red-purple fruit, spices, rose petals, lavender, menthol and liquorice develop with a little time in the glass. Bright acids and lively tannins give this classic, inviting Barbaresco from Massolino plenty of energy and persistence. SUPERIORE.DE

"Medium garnet red with ruby reflections and a brightening rim. Fine and elegant nose of raspberries and strawberries, some sour cherry and pomegranate as well as a hint of forest floor. Very fresh and juicy on the palate with polished and gripping tannins and a spicy final." Falstaff

"Firm and structured, this wine boasts dark ripe fruits that draw the attention as aromas of blue violets lead deeper into the glass. Juicy dark cherries flavors form the core of the palate as drying blackberries, and hints of plum weave across the firm and tannic palate that is lifted by mouthwatering acidity. Elegant and savory flavors offer a respite from the richness of the fruit on the finish." Wine Enthusiast

"The 2021 Barbaresco Albesani is a super-classic wine that is going to need time to come around. It possesses notable structure and the understated depth that is common of Barbaresco. Time in the glass brings out scents of herbs, white pepper, autumn leaves and spice. All this needs is time in bottle." Vinous

"Bright and fresh with notes of red berries, dried rose hips and asphalt. Medium-bodied. It has a meaty structure with very fine tannins and bright acidity. Shows tension and focus. Spicy at the end. Try after 2026." James Suckling

Currá is an archaic long-distance runner and presents itself very aristocratically with increasing bottle maturity or also good aeration even when young. Then it reveals dark berries and a fine chocolate note in the bouquet. In its style, it is edgy at first, but then at no point denies its greatness and harmony. Tobacco, plums, smoke and tobacco: with every glass, this exceptional wine reveals new facets and a firework of impressions. This is Nebbiolo from 65-year-old vines at the highest level! SUPERIORE.DE

"Tasted blind. Medium ruby red with orange reflections. Pretty nose of cherries and raspberry jam with hints of oak and liquorice. Generous fruit that is not yet fully open on the palate, with a fine nerve of ripe acidity. Ripe, chewy tannins frame the fruit on the long finish." Jancis Robinson

"This red is concentrated and packed with cherry, plum, tar, iron and underbrush flavors. It's fluid and supple, with a mass of sinewy tannins guarding the finish." Wine Spectator

"Fragrant and concentrated, it offers enticing aromas of roses, violets, wild berries and Asian incense. Firm and straightforward, the angular palate evokes red cherry, cranberry, star anise and a hint of white pepper, accompanied by tightly wound, fine-grained tannins. It is still young and austere, but balanced, with lively acidity. Give it plenty of time to develop fully." Vinous

"Fragrant and concentrated, it offers enticing aromas of roses, violets, wild berries and Asian incense. Firm and straightforward, the angular palate evokes red cherry, cranberry, star anise and a hint of white pepper, accompanied by tightly wound, fine-grained tannins. It is still young and austere, but balanced, with lively acidity. Give it plenty of time to develop fully." Wine Enthusiast

"Here is a little leap back in time to a vintage with great personality and character. The Sottimano 2015 Barbaresco Currá is a majestic expression that unfolds to reveal dark fruits, spices and carefully developed aromas of tar, liquorice and spent embers. Previous vintages of this wine started slow and closed (this is one of the age-worthy characteristics of Currá), but the warm and sunny 2015 vintage starts with high aromatic intensity." Wine Advocate

Rabaja and Asili are probably the most famous vineyards in Barbaresco. Medium, delicately fragrant nose of rose petals, cherries and blue flowers, with restrained ethereal herbal notes. Powerful and compact on the palate, with a well-proportioned cornucopia of black fruits such as blackberries and cassis, plus some liquorice. As the wine progresses, its power and a certain pressure become apparent, but it never comes across as wild or ostentatious, instead always reflecting the elegance of the vineyard and the typical Giacosa ageing in large oak. Impressive flavour and length! SUPERIORE.DE

"Aromatic and spicy, this red delivers cherry, strawberry, rose, anise, thyme and mineral notes backed by a solid spine of tannins. Vibrant, complex and balanced, with a silky texture and a lingering aftertaste of fruit and savory elements." Wine Spectator

"The Rabajà will still need some time in the bottle. At this young stage, it shows a pretty ensemble of dark berries, crushed rose, white stone and dusty liquorice root. Patience is required here." Wine Advocate

"Very fragrant and complex, with mandarin, jasmine, cedar, black truffle and iron. Full-bodied and very structured. Fantastic structure for this vintage. Very Barolo-like in structure. Give this wine at least four or five years to mature." James Suckling

Rabaja and Asili are probably the most famous sites in Barbaresco. Medium, finely fragrant nose of rose petals, cherries and blue blossoms, with restrained ethereal herbal notes. On the palate, powerful, compact and with a well-proportioned cornucopia of black fruits such as blackberry and cassis, plus some liquorice. As the wine progresses, it shows its power and a certain pressure, which, however, never comes across as wild or ostentatious, but always reflects the elegance of the site and the Giacosa-typical ageing in large wood. Impressive aroma and length! SUPERIORE.DE

"The Bruno Giacosa 2017 Barbaresco Rabajà is a fine and delicate wine that throws a curveball at our expectations of this notoriously hot and dry vintage. The wine is exceedingly generous when it comes to its fruit, especially its blackcurrant and plum, but what steals the show is that elegant mineral note that so seamlessly cedes to spice, licorice and cinnamon. Rabajà is one of the most distinctive growing sites in Barbaresco, thanks to its white stony soils that leave such a strong imprint on its wines. The wine is remarkable for its nicely linear and delicate style, but it ultimately proves its power and determination on the palate over many long minutes." Wine Advocate

Ceretto's Barbaresco Asili (approx. 4,000 bottles) is the clearest and most complete of the winery's impressive Barbaresco collection. It reveals a fine sweetness of cherries and redcurrants on the nose, followed by an extremely silky and fine texture on the palate. Following on from the bright berry fruit, its bouquet reveals subtle notes of gravel and delicate, salty flavours. Overall, an accessible and highly elegant approach with great freshness, fine tannins and great ageing potential. SUPERIORE.DE

"Aromas of black cherries and dried flowers flow along the top of the glass as notes of earth, truffle and incense swirl below. Elegant but firm tannins, with the first sip showing savory flavors of black tea and herbs macerating with wild red fruits that linger for what seems like ages." Wine Enthusiast

"Extremely spicy with rose stems, orange peel and a few pieces of cedar wood. Full-bodied, very chewy tannins. Almost leathery. Becomes mineral and icy. Needs time to soften. Better after 2026." James Suckling

"The Barbaresco Asili 2020 is quite simply a textbook Asili. Fragrant and silky, with tremendous purity of fruit and class, the 2020 is so impressive. All the elements are so well balanced in a Barbaresco that impresses with its pedigree. A long, beautifully persistent finish rounds things off in style." Vinous

"The Ceretto 2020 Barbaresco Asili (a certified organic wine) shows aromas of violet fruits, especially summer plums and some blackcurrant. The wine opens in a dark garnet red colour with the advantage of the beautiful transparency that comes with Nebbiolo. The Asili seems to have a little more fruit weight and vigour in this warm vintage." Wine Advocate

"If there is one MGA that benefits from the richness of the 2020 vintage, it is the Asili, known for its lean, pure elegance. Parma violet is enveloped in watermelon fruit, leafy lightness and a base of spices among smoky woods, liquorice and roots. The lush fruit on the palate is carried by crisp acidity and dense, silky tannins, with a grippy, youthful finish, drenched in a tangy blood orange aftertaste. A very elegant Asili with volume. A great wine." Decanter

Barbaresco Bricco di Treiso presents itself with more power and depth than the normal Barbaresco. Dark red stone fruit, menthol, spices, leather and some cedar wood on the nose. Powerful on the palate, even at a young age, with plenty of muscle power which, together with the harmoniously balanced tannin and acidity structure, suggests a great, long life with a promising development. SUPERIORE.DE

"Bright ruby red with a sparkling centre and delicately brightening rim. Great, appealing and open nose, of fresh cinnamon powder, ripe raspberries, plus some sealing wax and white pepper, savoury and inviting. Very elegant and polished on the palate, with tightly woven tannins, beautiful salinity and a very long finish." Falstaff

"The Barbaresco Il Bricco 2019 is a very beautiful, beguiling wine. Sweet red cherry fruit, blood orange, cinnamon, mint and spices give the 2019 an impressive dimension and complexity. This deceptively medium-bodied Barbaresco shows great depth and power." Vinous

"Packed with cherry, raspberry, floral and mineral aromas and flavours, this red is restrained but harmonious and structured, with notes of iron, tobacco and undergrowth adding complexity in the long, dense aftertaste." Wine Spectator

"Subtle, pure and pretty, this wine carries an intentional character. It offers dark cherry notes, both fresh and warmed, enhanced by sweet spice. Earthy and leathery undertones accompany fine but present tannins finishing with lifted acidity, built to last." Wine Enthusiast

"The fruit for this wine comes from the Bricco di Treiso MGA and immediately shows more softness and textural definition. The Barbaresco Il Bricco 2019 is multi-layered and rich with black fruits, spices, tar and a sweet hint of cinnamon. Il Bricco offers more overall power and structure for longer ageing in the cellar." Wine Advocate

"A solid and powerful Barbaresco with fantastic depth of fruit and multi-layered tannins. Full and so deep and concentrated, with great length and structure. Bark, berries, minerals and deep terroir and gravitas. Try it after 2027." James Suckling

Barbaresco Bricco di Treiso presents itself with more power and depth than the normal Barbaresco. Dark red stone fruit, menthol, spices, leather and some cedar wood on the nose. Powerful on the palate, even at a young age, with a lot of muscle power, which, together with the harmoniously balanced tannin and acidity structure, suggests a great, long life with a promising development. SUPERIORE.DE

"Sparkling ruby-garnet colour. Inviting, accessible nose with notes of pomegranate, beetroot and fresh raspberry, plus some rust. Polished and fine in attack and finish, lots of raspberry, plus fine-meshed tannins, covers a wide range." Falstaff

"Offers a nice blend of fruit and floral tones, with aromas and flavours of cherry, rose, iron and eucalyptus. The dense tannins give the wine good grip, and the finish is graceful." Wine Spectator

"The wines from il Bricco are as classic as they can be and show the passion with which Pio Cesare makes wine. Aromas of dark cherry jam, stewed plums with crushed bay leaf and ground spices dominate the nose. Elegant with a fine tannin line that runs from start to finish, balancing the flavours of wild berries, black tea and savoury spices, a true tightrope act that succeeds almost perfectly. A jewel of a wine." Wine Enthusiast

"Exquisite aromas of strawberries, cherries, hibiscus and cranberries. A hint of cedar and sandalwood. Medium-bodied, with very fine tannins that run the length of the wine and blend beautifully with it. Give this wine four or six years to fully open up." James Suckling

First bottled in 1967, the Masseria comes from a vineyard in Bricco di Neive and is essentially vinified and aged like a Barolo. Since the 2018 vintage, it now comes from a small parcel that used to belong to the Barbaresco winery Socré, and it is now deliberately released a year later to provide more harmony and balance.

Floral and spicy notes meld with a core of rich, generous fruit in a generous Barbaresco based on pure resonance. Masseria is vinified and aged like Vietti's single-vineyard Barolos. This means long fermentation, six months in French oak and more than two years in barrique. This, together with the top vintage of 2019 and the broad shoulders of Neive, results in a Barbaresco with clear Barolo hints. SUPERIORE.DE

"The Vietti 2019 Barbaresco Roncaglie Masseria helps to fill out this wide portfolio of wines representing the best of Piedmont. This winery was able to recently acquire new land in this cru site, now totaling two hectares of vines, thus giving considerably more fruit to this program. This Barbaresco is released one year after its peers to show additional depth and fullness, especially in this naturally concentrated vintage. Dark fruit and cherry cedes to pretty spice and tar." Wine Advocate

"Complex aromas of blackberries and black truffle with some lavender. Full-bodied with velvety tannins that spread across the palate. Rich and deep on the finish, with fantastic length and gravitas." James Suckling

"The 2019 Barbaresco Masseria Roncaglie is the best Barbaresco I have ever tasted from Vietti. Bright, translucent and full of energy, the 2019 is stunning from the first sip, and it was poured after all the Barolos in the range. Crushed flowers, sweet red berry fruit, cinnamon, mint and orange peel all grace this exquisite, stunning Barbaresco. The 2019 is pure and full of finesse. For many years, Barbaresco was the hidden gem in this range. I'm not sure how long that will last. The 2019 is outrageously beautiful. Don't miss it!" Vinous

Eucalyptus and red berries on the nose. Energetic, deep and elegant Barbaresco with a cornucopia of fruit, plus some rose petals and spices. Wonderfully polished style, one of Pelissero's great wines. SUPERIORE.DE

"The 2018 Barbaresco Tulin strikes a compelling middle ground in Giorgio Pelissero's range. It has the richness usually found in his wines, but a good bit of freshness too. Floral and spice overtones weave into a core of red/purplish berry fruit, lending striking inner perfume and energy throughout. Nicely delineated and impeccable in its balance, the Tulin is impressive today." Vinous

First bottled in 1967, Roncaglie (formerly Barbaresco Masseria) comes from a vineyard in Bricco di Neive and is essentially vinified and aged like a Barolo. Since the 2018 vintage, it now comes from a small parcel that used to belong to the Socré Barbaresco winery and is now deliberately released a year later to ensure greater harmony and balance. Floral and spicy notes merge with a core of rich, generous fruit in a generous Barbaresco based on pure resonance. Barbaresco Roncaglie is vinified and matured in the same way as Vietti's single-vineyard Barolos. This means long fermentation, six months in French oak and more than two years in barrique. This, together with the broad shoulders of Neive, results in a noble Nebbiolo with clear hints of Barolo and impressive depth. SUPERIORE.DE

"Just mid ruby. Firm, concentrated raspberry-fruit nose becoming more opulent and perfumed with aeration. Impressively balanced on the palate with wired, juicy raspberry and fine tannins. Full aromatic spread on the finish." Jancis Robinson

"The Vietti 2020 Barbaresco Roncaglie Masseria has bright rose, cherry, redcurrant and angel food cake with strawberries. There are mineral notes as well, and the fruit unfolds over the palate with gentle intensity. There is some oak spice, but it is very well integrated; and the wine shows good balance, especially where the tannins versus acidity is concerned." Wine Advocate

"The 2020 Barbaresco, from vines in Roncaglie, sizzles with tension. Bright, red-toned fruit, orange peel, mint, white pepper and crushed rocks are all beautifully delineated. In many vintages, the Roncaglie is quite showy. That is hardly the case in 2020, a vintage in which the wine is classically austere and in need of time. Super-classic." Vinous

"Very perfumed and pretty with sliced strawberries and citrus blossom. Plenty of forest berries, too. Medium to full body. Creamy tannins and a fresh finish. Fine texture and gorgeous." James Suckling

Complex and multi-layered classic from the old master of Nebbiolo from Piedmont. Cedar wood, plum, red fruit, undergrowth and a hint of rose on the nose. Balanced, spicy flavour, firm tannins and a precise, long finish. This muscular monument of a red wine definitely needs a few more years in the bottle, with a little patience it will turn into pure elegance! SUPERIORE.DE

"Fragrant and complex with aromas of ripe wild strawberries, sour cherry, raspberry and blood orange, wonderfully floral with rose petals. Wonderfully juicy on the palate with fine grip and skilfully concentrated red berry fruit; despite the warm, charming vintage, it is very youthful and grippy with almost crunchy fruit, the nobly arranged tannins and gripping, fine acid veins give additional freshness and verve. It seems to me that a change in style is taking place here towards an earlier harvest and more freshness." Weinwisser

"This round red wine shows flavours of cherry, raspberry, minerals, eucalyptus and hay. Balanced, with a good dose of well-integrated tannins that provide support on the lively finish." Wine Spectator

"The Barbaresco 2020 is a very young wine. In most years, the Gaja Barbaresco is quite striking, but the 2020 clearly needs time. It has great fruit intensity. Nowadays, the Gaja wines have less oak influence, which pushes the fruit forward, but also produces a wine that is a little more austere at the beginning." Vinous

"This wine shows the class, beauty and vitality of the noble Nebbiolo grown in the soils of Barbaresco. The wine opens with aromas of ripe cherries, warmed strawberries in sweet spices, fresh herbs and mixed flowers. The palate is lifted and vibrant with a verve that electrifies the palate as flavors of boysenberry, dried blood orange and black tea saunter about alongside well-intergrated tannins, making this wine drinkable now but ready for the cellar." Wine Enthusiast

"So many flavours of fresh rose petals and hibiscus tea. Medium bodied with a crisp and floral character with sliced strawberries and a bright finish. Very appealing with nice structure. Powerful on the finish." James Suckling

"Depth, structure and complexity are the hallmarks of Nebbiolo, and this wine not only offers these characteristics, but also a juicy portion of fresh berry fruit. It is blended from 14 different vineyards throughout the Barbaresco DOCG area with an average vine age of 40 years. Barbaresco is the wine with which the Gaja legacy began in 1859. Aromatic notes of spiced orange peel, an assertive bouquet of dried violet flowers and a hint of dried mint. On the palate, the spicy character of baking chocolate and fennel seed is balanced by an abundance of ripe red berry fruit - notes of strawberries and balsamic, raspberries, fresh mint and dried tobacco. The wine is richly structured, but a stylistic shift in the younger vintages of Barbaresco makes this wine immediately drinkable." Decanter

"Bright ruby-garnet colour, sparkling. Extremely fragrant nose of peach and pomegranate, then fresh plum, appears extremely fresh. Lots of juicy fruit on the palate, opens up with elegant, polished tannins, fine raspberry notes, lingers for a very long time." Falstaff

Rabaja and Asili are probably the most famous vineyards in Barbaresco. Medium, delicately fragrant nose of rose petals, cherries and blue flowers, with restrained ethereal herbal notes. Powerful and compact on the palate, with a well-proportioned cornucopia of black fruits such as blackberries and cassis, plus some liquorice. As the wine progresses, its power and a certain pressure become apparent, but this never comes across as wild or ostentatious, but always reflects the elegance of the site and the Giacosa-typical ageing in large wood. Impressive flavour and length! SUPERIORE.DE

"Pungent nose. And very fine and fresh. The fruit literally jumps out of the glass. Normally rather powerful, but the 2020 has great finesse. Long!" Jancis Robinson

"This red starts out smooth and almost creamy, displaying cherry, strawberry, earth, iron and eucalyptus flavors. Firm and balanced, with excellent energy and a long, resonant finish that evokes white pepper. Offers brilliant intensity and expression." Wine Spectator

"Wow. The purity of the fruit and the sophistication are out of this world. Peaches, strawberries, light-coloured plums and berries. Full-bodied and yet compact. The tannin structure is there, but you can't see it. It is dense and decisive with perfect balance and length. A masterpiece. It's so exciting to taste." James Suckling

The grapes come from the single vineyard MGA Rabajà in the municipality of Barbaresco. 2019 is a retro vintage, so to speak, as it marks a return for Vietti, who vinified Rabajà back in the 1980s. The soils are calcareous and clayey, with a south/south-west exposure and an altitude of around 235-315 metres above sea level. The average age of the vines is 51 years and they are cultivated according to the Guyot system. Intense garnet red colour. Opulent and delicate on the nose with floral scents of rosehips and violets and ripe black cherry. Amazingly fresh and enveloping for a mature Riserva from the very first sip. The tannins are ripe, soft, silky and wonderfully integrated, giving the wine a great structure and elegance. What completely won us over during the tasting was the almost immeasurable length of the wine, which is still resonating as we write this. Complimenti! SUPERIORE.DE

"This Barbaresco leaps from the glass with aromas of black raspberry jam from the farmers' market, including seeds, blue violets, sweet spices and subtle herbal notes. The palate is polished and lush, with tart cherries that stand out, while lively acidity keeps the palate fresh and rounded tannins carry the wine through to the savoury finish." Wine Enthusiast

"Transparent and clear flavours of cherries and berries with some cedar and lavender, which fade into a medium body, with fine and round tannins and a delicious finish. Now very accessible and refined." James Suckling

"The Barbaresco Riserva Rabajà 2019 is a new wine from Vietti. It emerges from the glass with a captivating bouquet reminiscent of crushed flowers, herbs, mint and orange peel. The aromas alone are beguiling. Vibrant and classic in structure, with a wonderful inner sweetness, the 2019 is absolutely irresistible." Vinous

"Bright with strawberry, cherry, rose, wild rosemary and iron aromas and flavors, this red is expressive but also firmly structured, harmonious and elegant, lingering with a complex aftertaste of fruit, mineral and savory elements." Wine Spectator

"Vietti worked at Cru Rabajà in the 1980s and has now returned to produce this inaugural vintage of the portfolio's latest wine. And what a stunning wine it is. The 2019 Barbaresco Riserva Rabajà has lush, well-rounded fruit and a generous disposition of wild mountain blueberries, grenadine and watermelon candy. There are also hints of resin, tar, linseed oil, fern or forest plants. The nose is one thing, but the palate is even more powerful, with very solid tannins, fresh acidity and generous fruit intensity. This Riserva is firing on all cylinders." Wine Advocate

Angelo Gaja's 2021 Barbaresco is a wine with poise and grace that has a lot to offer. Expressive spicy and floral notes are the first to open up, but what really stands out is the wine's nuance and delineation. The transparency is unmistakable. Sweet red cherries, mint, cinnamon and rose petals develop in the glass and add further nuances. The flavour is balanced and spicy, the tannins firm and the finish precise and long. This muscular monument of a red wine definitely needs a few more years of bottle ageing, with a little patience it will transform into pure elegance. Put simply, the 2021 is one of the best Gaja Barbarescos of recent times. SUPERIORE.DE

"A selection of the best Barbaresco vineyards: Impressive bouquet of red berries and flowers, also balsamic nuances; combines precision and fullness, the long-lasting tannins and the pithy acidity in harmony, straightforward and elegant." Vinum

"Bright ruby colour with a fine garnet sheen. Very precise nose, opens with notes of fresh plums and raspberries, plus some cinnamon. Juicy and salty on the palate, grippy, savoury tannin, shows good depth, firm pressure on the final." Falstaff

"A beautiful, elegant and expressive red wine that offers flavours of strawberries, cherries, roses and minerals. Refined tannins and lively acidity give the wine the right support and an overall sense of harmony. The wine becomes beautifully taut and austere, with red fruits and spicy notes in the long aftertaste." Wine Spectator

"The aromas of liquorice, minerals, light tar and dark berries such as raspberries are very attractive. It is medium-bodied with a tight and integrated palate with fine tannins that are seamless and invisible. It is long and lively. It needs two to four years to open up. Try it after 2027." James Suckling

This wine embodies the Piedmontese character: headstrong, persistent and silent, discreet and strong. Its colour is inviting ruby. Rich, elegant bouquet of berries and spices, initially reserved on the palate, then develops very balanced and smooth with precise structure, polished tannin and tight acidity. SUPERIORE.DE

"There’s impeccable transparency and freshness to this Barbaresco on the nose, which introduces bright rose petals, lifted orange peel, crushed stones and sour cherries. The stoney tannins trace intricate detail on the medium-to full-bodied palate, highlighting the racy acidity, brambly undertones and a beautiful array of wild berries. Yes, there’s power and depth of flavor, but this is all about grace and beauty." James Suckling