Wines from Piedmont

"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

Bright garnet red with a copper-coloured rim. Fine olfactory cinema of red fruits and sea buckthorn. In addition, forest earth paired with a hint of tobacco and bitter almond. In the glass still young, initially loud tannins, with some air then softer tones and a powerful, lasting final. An elegant, aristocratic wine that leaves a lasting impression not only on the first glass. SUPERIORE.DE

"This red has a warm, brambly, woodsy quality that downplays the muted fruit. Boasts burly tannins, with a spicy, complex finish. Shows the more muscular side of Barbaresco." Wine Spectator

"Notes of raspberries and plum skins with walnuts, bark, ground spices and damp earth. Polished and a little chewy with medium to full body and chalky texture of the tannins. Firm and consistent. Straightforward finish." James Suckling

"The 2020 Barbaresco Cottá shows an austere character with pronounced rust or iodine aromas intermingled with dark fruits and dried cherries. The wine has a generous, medium-weight texture that offers a good amount of firmness to the palate. Give this pretty wine a little more time to develop." Wine Advocate

"The 2020 Barbaresco Cottá is dense, powerful and self-contained. Black cherry, plum, spice, menthol, mocha and earthiness contribute to an impression of gravitas. Huge tannins add plenty of structure to this powerful, brooding wine. This impressive young Barbaresco needs time." Vinous

The grapes for the exceptionally deep Vigna del Gris come from vines over 40 years old from the 1-hectare plot of the same name in Monforte d'Alba. The bouquet is beguilingly harmonious, with a convincing attack, weightless and powerful at the same time. Firm tannins and plenty of flavour on the palate, with a great texture and very juicy. Long, rich finish. Don't make the mistake of opening this wine until it has gained in maturity, personality and elegance after a few more years in the bottle. SUPERIORE.DE

"The 2019 Barolo Ginestra Vigna del Gris is another great wine from Conterno-Fantino. Crushed flowers, cedar wood, pipe tobacco, mint, dried flowers and worn leather give the 2019 an impressive aromatic presence. Fabio Conterno has also managed to tame the tannins of the Monforte here. The Gris is really impressive. I would drink it before the other 2019s." Vinous

"Offers attractive notes of cherry and raspberry as well as flavours of iron, tar and undergrowth, wrapped in an embrace of toasted oak. Overall, this red wine is balanced, and the fruit should develop over the next decade as all the elements integrate. Long, resonant finish." Wine Spectator

"The 2019 Barolo Ginestra Vigna del Gris is very robust and powerful on the nose. It needs more time in the bottle to develop and overcome its youthful phase. This wine is definitely ready to give more to those who wait. It opens with a dark garnet colour and ripe aromas of cherries, plums, roses and orange peel. After a few minutes, additional spices and nutmeg emerge. The tannins are still grippy." Wine Advocate

"Notes of red berries, crushed herbs and orange blossom with hints of lilac and wet stones. Medium to full-bodied. Fleshy and mouth-filling with polished tannins. Refined and supple. A hint of slightly bitter spices on the finish." James Suckling

Langhe Rosso Larigi is a classic expression of the Barbera grape from the family's historic vineyards in La Morra. It displays a dark concentration of colour and a generous weight of fruit with powerful aromas of plum, candied cherry and baked blackberry. The wine is aged for 18 months in barriques and offers a wealth of spicy flavours and roasted aromas. There are only 3 barrels or 900 bottles of this wine! SUPERIORE.DE

"Dark ruby red colour with purple reflections. Warm, savoury bouquet of juicy cherries and plums on a carpet of myrrh, coffee and cigar box. Polished on the palate, with juicy fruit, fine tannins, harmonious and persistent." Falstaff

"The Larigi 2021 is noble, elegant and highly polished. Silky tannins envelop a core of red cherry and plum fruit. Spices, new leather, cedar wood and blood orange meld together. The 2021 is one of the more refined, medium-bodied Larigis I've ever tasted here. The purity of the fruit is convincing." Vinous

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 grapes for the Barbaresco come mainly from the top vineyards Pora, Ovello, Montestefano, Muncagota and Rio Sordo. Deep, lively ruby to garnet red colour. A broad bouquet of red fruit and biscuits with a hint of minerality. The palate is characterised by a rich, solid structure and a continuous development that ends in a long, fragrant final. Every year, the leading Italian winegrowers' cooperative shows what it and its members are capable of with its basic Barbaresco. SUPERIORE.DE

"Youthful, medium ruby red colour. A real, concentrated fruit nose, which is sadly lacking in this vintage. Subtle marasca cherry on the palate with lots of finely milled tannins; head and shoulders above the rest." Jancis Robinson

"It is aromatic and attractive with notes of dried cherries, hibiscus, cocoa and bark, followed by a medium body with polished and refined tannins with a velvety texture and a linear finish. Fresh and floral on the finish with a bright red fruit backbone." James Suckling

"The 2020 Barbaresco is a beautiful, harmonious wine that will drink well with minimal cellaring time. Forward fruit and soft curves are perhaps a little atypical for a young Barbaresco, but this also makes the wine very enjoyable. Juicy red cherry and plum fruit, rose petals, spices, cedar, mint and tobacco come together in the glass. Classicists will probably prefer other vintages, but it's hard not to like the 2020 for its charming, exuberant personality. At the same time, aeration brings out a greater aromatic presence and also a good structure." Vinous

"Still vinous, with youthful strawberry notes, rosebud, violets, liquorice and a hint of cinnamon. Spicy and floral on the palate, dominated by firm, crisp and persistent acidity and velvety, ripe tannins of astonishing quality; perhaps a little austere on the finish. Amazing Barbaresco. Here we have the Barbaresco co-operative, known for producing some of the best value quality wines in the Langhe." Decanter

"Embrace the harmonious blend of cooked cherries infused with an array of mixed spices, accompanied by subtle hints of medicinal herbs and rose water. Soft and rounded, yet possessing a discernible edge, this wine presents a fruit-forward profile loaded with flavors of cherry and raspberry, all the while, complemented by refreshing acidity. Its polished and elegant character develops throughout the bottle and will age deep into the future while still being great today." Wine Enthusiast

"The 2020 Barbaresco offers a wealth of flavours of wild cherries, blue flowers, sweet spices and crushed limestone. As always, the wine paints an exciting and authentic portrait of Nebbiolo, albeit with a little more richness and texture in this vintage. This is especially true on the palate, where the wine offers a medium-bodied intensity with melting tannins." Wine Advocate

The sandy soils north of Monforte d'Alba give this Barolo its immense power and structure. The bouquet is very open and appealing with dark cherries and raspberries, as well as notes of mint, cedar wood, rose petals and sage. Very lively and expressive on the palate, with deep beauty, seamlessly contoured and spectacular resonance. A fabulous wine from a very good vintage, classic and exotic at the same time. SUPERIORE.DE

"Intriguing bouquet with notes of cherries, leather, with a touch of sage flavours; juicy, harmonious texture with finely chiselled tannins, finishes long and multi-layered. Pleasing with its elegant style and character." Vinum

"Presents cherry, raspberry, sun-kissed hay, mineral and spice aromas and flavors that curl around an acidic spine and tannins. This has all the right components, matched to a slim, taut frame, with fine length." Wine Spectator

"Fresh and vibrant with red berry, blood orange, crushed hazelnut, hibiscus and spice aromas and flavors. Medium- to full-bodied, tense and linear with a backbone of firm, finely grained tannins and steady minerality. Needs some time. Try after 2027." James Suckling

"The Conterno Fantino 2019 Barolo Castelletto Vigna Pressenda is medium dark and more concentrated compared to many of its peers. This wine shows a solid bouquet with fixed aromas of wild cherry, long-stemmed rose and candied orange. With time, even more floral aromas are coaxed forward from the bouquet. Beyond those are oak-driven notes of allspice and cinnamon. The tannins are polished, and the wine offers quite a bit of fruit texture." Wine Advocate

"The 2019 Barolo Castelletto Vigna Pressenda is gorgeous. Delicate and perfumed in the glass, the 2019 offers up a beguiling mélange of dark red cherry, rose petal, mint, cedar, blood orange, spice and crushed autumn leaves. In 2019, the Monforte tannins are especially refined, something that is very rarely the case here at this stage. What a wonderfully precise, sophisticated, nuanced wine this is. Impressive." Vinous

G.D. Vajra's Ravera (whose vineyard extends over the municipalities of Novello and Barolo) is always the most angular, powerful and vertical of their collection. It comes from soils with clay and sandstone at 320 to 340 metres above sea level. This is the ideal place for wines that show both power and elegance. The tannins are sweet, but every fibre of the backbone is dense and firm. Red and purple fruits with liquorice, tar and white truffle are neatly packaged here and only reveal themselves gradually, but then with beautiful precision and straightforwardness. The final has a wonderfully long aftertaste, superb! SUPERIORE.DE

"Aromas of ripe raspberries, sour cherries and blue berries, framed by a smoky floral note. In the mouth, it is still grippy and compact, but shows more and more finesse with air. A beautiful mix of classic and modern, which characterises the style of the estate." Weinwisser

"Intense, sparkling garnet red colour with a fine shimmer. Very clear and dense, flavours of ripe wild raspberries, some blackberries, roses and a little tar in the background. Polished and juicy at the attack and on the palate, showing fine-meshed tannins in many layers, still a little rough on the final." Falstaff

"Powerful and muscular. Lots of tannin. Needs time!" Jancis Robinson

"A very appealing nose with slightly resinous black fruits, pine, laurel and balsamic vinegar, with chewy tannins, an expressive palate and great length." Decanter

"A dense, compact version with cherry and raspberry fruit underlined by notes of hay, thyme, iron and tobacco. Straightforward and lively, with mouth-filling tannins framing the finish, this wine needs time to unify all its elements." Wine Spectator

"The Barolo Ravera 2020 is a beautiful, aromatically exotic wine that needs time to show its best side. Orange peel, spice, menthol and cherry brandy rise from the glass and impart a lot of ethereal Nebbiolo beauty before the tannins kick in. The wine has wonderful richness and substance, very much in the style of this year's mid-weight wines. More than anything, I admire the balance." Vinous

"Blood orange, spicy plum and cloves with a hint of fir fruit and white pepper. On the palate, tight, chalky tannins with a structured, full body and a savoury, exciting finish. Long, complex, austere and expansive." James Suckling

"The Ravera vineyard, one of the winery's most valuable estates, is known for its chalky soil and old vines, which give the wine depth and ageing potential. This Barolo shows crushed raspberries and redcurrants mingling with wild thyme and fresh laurel. Subtle notes of cinchona bark, whole cinnamon and fresh porcini mushrooms add complexity. On the palate, the warmed jam of mixed berries is blended with crushed cloves, pepper and earthy notes of truffle and undergrowth. Fine and elegant tannins provide structure, while the balanced warmth envelops the senses like a comforting embrace." Wine Enthusiast

The sandy soils north of Monforte d'Alba give this Barolo its immense power and structure. The bouquet is very open and appealing with dark cherries and raspberries, as well as notes of mint, cedar wood, rose petals and sage. Very lively and expressive on the palate, with deep beauty, seamlessly contoured and spectacular resonance. A fabulous wine from a very good vintage, classic and exotic at the same time. SUPERIORE.DE

"The Conterno Fantino 2020 Barolo Castelletto Vigna Pressenda shows rich dark fruits, liquorice, spa cedar and sweet oak spice. On the palate, it shows a certain richness with a hint of vanilla extract, with sweet blueberry cream and cherry pie. The tannins have a slight toasted note, but remain fine-grained and well-integrated overall." Wine Advocate

"The Barolo Castelletto Vigna Pressenda 2020 is a delicate, elegant wine. Crushed rose petals, orange peel, white pepper, mint and crushed stones adorn this marvellous, translucent Barolo. All the elements are very well balanced. It has a crystalline purity that is simply beguiling. It is the most ethereal and perfumed of the Barolos here. The 2020 is simply great." Vinous

"Clearly defined fruit flavors give this red accessibility. Cherry, strawberry, raspberry, hibiscus, earth and menthol notes are backed by a dense matrix of tannins. A fresh version, with a long, complex finish." Wine Spectator

"One of the richer, rounder and more mouth-filling Barolos. This expansive wine fills its beautifully firm structure with intricate layers of red cherry, orange peel, raspberry and cedar. Although full-bodied and broad in texture, it has the characteristic fine-grained tannins that only get better with time." James Suckling

The grapes for the exceptionally deep Vigna del Gris come from vines over 40 years old from the 1-hectare plot of the same name in Monforte d'Alba. The bouquet is beguilingly harmonious, with a convincing attack, weightless and powerful at the same time. Firm tannins and plenty of flavour on the palate, with a great texture and very juicy. Long, rich finish. Don't make the mistake of opening this wine until it has gained in maturity, personality and elegance after a few more years in the bottle. SUPERIORE.DE

"Exudes an aroma of stone fruit, red flowers and leather; robust structure; the tannins have great potential, characterful evolution, persistent finish. Full of greatness and race, but still needs to mature." Vinum

"Expressive bouquet with red fruits, wild cherry, pomegranate, orange peel. On the palate, grippy, with crisp red fruit, energetic, very precisely woven, fine granular tannins. Juicy, elegant and distinguished. Also convincing this year." Weinwisser

"Packed with cherry, raspberry, floral and mineral flavors, this red is graceful yet backed by a base of dense tannins. Supple and fluid, with fine balance, plus a light, spicy underpinning. Excellent length." Wine Spectator

"The Barolo Ginestra Vigna del Gris 2020 shows ripe fruit, dried cherry skin, plum, oak spice, medicinal cherry or cola, classic baking spice and coconut flakes. It's very fruity on the palate, and it won't disappear quickly, so there's still some room for ageing. The acidity and tannins are balanced, only the oak is a little too present. Give it time." Wine Advocate

"The 2020 Barolo Ginestra Vigna del Gris is rich and resonant in this tasting. As has been the case for several years, the Vigna del Gris is characterised by fine tannins, probably a result of older vines and more favourable weather conditions for cooler sites like this one. The Vigna del Gris in this tasting is very expressive, dark and full-bodied, with a marvellous depth of texture. It is another impeccable wine from Conterno-Fantino. Plum, blood orange, chalk and white pepper linger on the lingering finish." Vinous

"A pretty, multi-layered aroma and an elegant, lively palate come together in this structured, complex and age-worthy wine. Balsam, rose petals, violets and cinnamon meet biting sour cherry, raspberry and star anise on the palate." James Suckling

Black cherry fruit, smoke, wild herbs, liquorice and tar form a compelling backdrop of aromas, flavours and textures as this dazzling, powerful Barolo opens up in the glass. The intense final is accompanied by delicate rose petals, lavender and a fine mineral-salty vein. Its stable tannin structure awaits a few more years of ageing in the bottle, as is typically the case with a classic Serralunga Barolo. SUPERIORE.DE

"The bouquet is dominated by forest fruit and wild flower flavours, also fine spice; juicy in the mouth, the tannins noticeable, ends long on notes of plums and liquorice. To accompany a roast beef." Vinum

"Notes of ground spices, nutshells and cedar wood with subtle flavours of red fruits in the background. Medium-bodied, structured and firm. Strong and slightly tart on the finish." James Suckling

"Aromas of cherries, raspberry liqueur, mint and minerals emphasise this taut, dense red wine, which is balanced and has notes of eucalyptus and juniper on the long finish." Wine Spectator

"The Barolo Baudana 2019 offers good power and ripeness with sweet fruit flavours, dark cherry, spices and ferruginous earth. These flavours are characteristic of this vineyard in Serralunga d'Alba. On the palate, the wine is silky and generous, with a salty minerality on the finish." Wine Advocate

"The Baudana, fermented and aged in large oak barrels, shows great complexity and finesse of liquorice root, smoky forest, rose and violet aromas, with wild strawberry and peony in the depths. The palate is firm and acidic, with structured but fine-grained tannins. It has the dustiness typical of Nebbiolo and is super-tart but fierce in character, with a hint of youthful rusticity on the finish. I would age it given its old-fashioned character." Decanter

"Intense, sparkling ruby colour with a slightly light rim. Opens with distinctly fragrant notes of peony, fresh cherries and some strawberry. Juicy on the attack and on the palate, with beautifully emphasised fruit and polished tannins that create firm pressure on the final." Falstaff

"Vivid aromas of cherry stand out as the dominant fruit note, harmonizing with abundant mineral and mixed spice characteristics. The palate presents a firm yet giving structure. The chiseled palate offers notes of wildflowers, savory herbs and spices finishing with a persistent minerality." Wine Enthusiast

"The most classic of all house brands, a wine with complexity and finesse. Notes of red plums on the nose, then mentholated notes of eucalyptus, juniper and fresh bay leaves. Juicy and sweet on the palate, with a menthol-fruity finish and a long aftertaste that is rounded off with notes of medicinal herbs." Luca Gardini

"The Barolo Baudana 2019 is absolutely captivating. Exuberant and bright in the glass, with plenty of freshness and remarkable purity of fruit, the Baudana offers generous dark red fruit, spice, leather, cherry, candy, cedar, tobacco and undergrowth. It has enormous depth and exceptional balance. Rose petals, white pepper and chalk add a special touch to the intense, savoury finish." Vinous

Barolo Ravera comes from a single vineyard with vines that are almost 50 years old. In the glass, it impresses with a strong, aromatic opening flavour. Bright, precise and finely chiselled, the Ravera captures everything good that the vintage has to offer. Cherry, sweet mint, candy and expressive floral notes are given an extra kick of inner sweetness by Ravera's natural energy. There is so much to look forward to as the wine develops over the next few years! SUPERIORE.DE

"Beguiling bouquet of dark forest fruits and cherries, herbal notes; precise attack, the tannins extremely fine and silky, the acidity and mineral components provide the balance. Outstanding style!" Vinum

"Dark, sparkling ruby with garnet-coloured tendencies. Elegant, fruity-floral bouquet of roses and ripe wild berries, backed by fine wood spice and meadow herbs. Fine fruit melt on the palate, with a compact fruit core and firm tannins, very exciting and incredibly long." Falstaff

"Brilliant, medium ruby red colour. Raspberry and salty, mineral notes and hints of eucalyptus with aeration. Compact and a little closed, but with sensual acidity leading the cool, fresh fruit. Long, deep, chewy tannins that need a few more years to settle. Great depth of fruit on the finish." Jancis Robinson

"A precise style, more reductive than oxidative, with a rich fruitiness reminiscent of raspberry jam, floral notes, black pepper and liquorice. Fresh, with velvety, slightly chewy tannins in the mid-palate that lead into a chocolaty finish." Decanter

"Gravel stones, raspberries, liquorice and allspice on the nose. It's lively, dense and minerally with a medium to full body and firm, tight and steely tannins. Leave it to mature." James Suckling

"The Elvio Cogno 2020 Barolo Ravera is a lush and fleshy expression with dark fruit, dried cherry, plum, sweet orris root, earth, toast and dark spice. The wine is quite firm, and there is a lovely sense of richness that coats the palate." Wine Advocate

"This aromatic red wine exudes spicy and savoury notes of eucalyptus, juniper, rosehip, bergamot and white pepper. The flavours of cherry, iron and tobacco follow in the long finish." Wine Spectator

"A Barolo with temperament and character. Fresh aromas, nectarine, redcurrant, then laurel, rounded off with nuances of nutmeg. Mouthfeel with citrus sensations, clementine, savoury, taut and crisp, with hints of yellow fruit." Luca Gardini

Black cherry fruit, smoke, wild herbs, liquorice and tar form a compelling backdrop of aromas, flavours and textures as this dazzling, powerful Barolo opens up in the glass. The intense final is accompanied by delicate rose petals, lavender and a fine mineral-salty vein. Its stable tannin structure awaits a few more years of ageing in the bottle, as is typically the case with a classic Serralunga Barolo. SUPERIORE.DE

"Beguiling nose with floral-spicy notes, smoky-mineral, tobacco, ripe redcurrant. Initially soft and red berry on the palate, then becomes more tightly meshed with a salty-mineral line, iron, highly elegant, taut and tense with a laser-like structure, finishes with the finest tobacco and sweet spices full of finesse." Weinwisser

"Polished and fresh thanks to the limestone. Very lively and exciting. Fresh!" Jancis Robinson

"Attractive notes of cherries, peaches, red plums and violets on the nose. Juicy and bright, with a medium body and delicious red berry fruit, accompanied by fine-grained tannins." James Suckling

"The Barolo Baudana 2020 opens with a burst of plump, juicy red fruit. Bright acids and lingering tannins remind us that we are in Serralunga. The 2020 will need a few more years to develop, but it is a relatively approachable wine for this part of the appellation. The purity of the fruit here is wonderful. Pretty floral and spicy nuances lift the finish effortlessly." Vinous

"With fruit from Serralunga d'Alba, the Luigi Baudana 2020 Barolo Baudana is a bold and ripe expression with dark currant, black cherry, sweet orange peel and crushed red rose. Soft, earthy layers appear on the mid palate with a hint of spicy liquorice. All this intensity of earth, fruit and spice swells on the palate, giving this wine an impressive character. It is ready to drink almost immediately." Wine Advocate

"Subtle notes of cherries in their prime, thyme, star anise, incense and warmed earth emerge with time, resulting in a wine worth the wait. The palate is initially plush, but the tannins soon make themselves known, shaping the wine into a polished and chiselled example of classic Nebbiolo. The savoury elements work in perfect harmony with the deep core of fruit and mouth-watering acidity, creating a Barolo that can be enjoyed now or cellared for decades." Wine Enthusiast

"Packed with fruit, this red exudes cherry, strawberry, rose and iron notes, with a hint of wild herbs. Vibrant acidity and fine-grained tannins lend well-meshed support. Harmonious and surprisingly approachable already, but this will improve over the next two decades." Wine Spectator

Matteo's classic from the commune of Serralunga d'Alba. Sorano shows exactly the weight and power we associate with this unique subzone of Barolo. The strong side of the Nebbiolo takes centre stage here, with the freshness of the fruit taking a distinguished yet noticeable back seat. Aromas of dried blackberries, ploughed earth, tobacco and crushed rock. Gripping tannins on the finish noticeably demand a longer aeration, and with further bottle ageing, lovers of powerful Barolo will get their money's worth. SUPERIORE.DE

"Just mid ruby with orange tinges. Fine cherry and sweet raspberry nose with minerally, savoury hints. Supple and suave cherry fruit lined with sandpapery tannins. Fruit-driven finish with supple acidity and tannic grip pulling the whole into shape." Jancis Robinson

"The aromas of graphite, eucalyptus, cherry, leather, white pepper and earth combine in this red wine with an open structure. It firms up on the finish, yet is approachable thanks to the fine harmony of its elements. The length is also excellent." Wine Spectator

"Matteo Ascheri favours short, hot fermentations that give the wine an immediate power and intensity that you can feel right away, especially in a classic vintage like this. His 2016 Barolo Sorano definitely shows the darker colour and stronger flavour concentration that comes with the fruit grown in Serralunga d'Alba. The wine's bouquet is generous and rich with red rose petals, liquorice, tar and smoky road asphalt. As you would expect, the tannins in Barolo Sorano are more pronounced, with a certain harshness that can only be softened after a few years of bottle ageing. What really drives this wine is the quality and the contained intensity of the 2016 fruit. It is certainly a classic, even if patience is required." Wine Advocate

"This full-bodied red is earthy and full of personality, with aromas of camphor, new leather, game and ripe black fruit. On the concentrated palate, chewy tannins accompany fleshy Marasca cherry, crushed raspberry, truffle and tobacco." Wine Enthusiast

Prunotto's Barolo Bussia comes from the vineyard site of the same name in the shape of an amphitheatre in the Bussia Monforte d'Alba area. This historic wine was first produced by Prunotto in 1961 as a single-vineyard wine. The balance and complexity of the Nebbiolo grapes are enhanced by the vineyard's different south to south-west exposures and traditional ageing in large barrels.

A great wine that combines the power of Barolo with the finesse of the Monforte terroir. Brilliant ruby red with garnet-coloured reflections, the bouquet is intensely fruity with hints of small red berries and a delicate vanilla note. The juicy, harmonious flavour is captivating and full of character, which builds well into the finish. SUPERIORE.DE

"Bright, medium-dense garnet red colour. Delicately characterised nose with hints of blood orange, tobacco and cranberry. Finely woven tannins, well integrated, then shows some sweet strawberry fruit, still closed on the finish." Falstaff

"The 2020 Barolo Bussia is an elegant, beguiling wine. It offers all the intense spice and balsamic character typical of Bussia, with a bit more presence and overall body than the other wines in the range. It’s a combination that works quite well. This is impeccably done." Vinous

Long Now is still a real insider tip for us. Dark ruby. Opulent nose with notes of black cherry, smoke, tobacco and liquorice. The palate is full of tension with a breadth and power that is unparalleled. In this exceptional wine, Barbera and Nebbiolo merge into a spectacular blend that moves richly, powerfully and with a beautiful, long resonance into a seemingly endless final. SUPERIORE.DE

"The 2019 Long Now is fabulous. It offers up an exotic mélange of blackberry jam, chocolate, cloves, leather, mocha and sweet French oak. This heady, racy Barbera/Nebbiolo blend delivers the goods, and then some. The 2019 is a gorgeous Long Now." Vinous

Cerretto is a fruit-driven wine of virile, explosive power that shows, among other things, how different the wines of Serralunga can be. Black cherry, plum, sage, menthol and liquorice hit the palate in a firm, tannic Barolo that will require some patience, but already presents itself with remarkable freshness, purity and nuance. Cerretta is the embodiment of the richness and structure of Serralunga. SUPERIORE.DE

"Brilliant fruit flavours, lilac and balsamic notes; supple in the mouth, lots of melting, the acidity vif, beguilingly fruity with fine mineral notes and length." Vinum

"Very inviting aroma with red and blue fruits, very elegant, with a very fine, balanced tannin structure, beautiful fruit sweetness without being overloaded, carried by a fine acidity. Wonderfully balanced, very well-balanced; a really beautiful wine that is already ready to drink." Weinwisser

"Rich and sweet. A little heavier than the Baudana. Needs time." Jancis Robinson

"A fresh and elegant Barolo that shows rose petals, wild strawberries, sour cherries and dried citrus peel on the nose. It is medium-bodied, with very fine tannins and a minerality of crushed stone that comes through at the end." James Suckling

"The Barolo Cerretta 2020 is a very complete wine in this vintage. Deep and layered, but in the medium-bodied style of the vintage, the 2020 impresses with its balance and overall harmony. Juicy red cherry fruit, spices, rose petals, mint and dried herbs fill out the layers well. The powerful finish is very attractive." Vinous

"The Luigi Baudana 2020 Barolo Cerretta has bold lines and shows dominant dark fruits. You get all the intensity of Serralunga d'Alba with ferruginous earth, dried apricot, blackcurrant, iron ore and crushed stone. The wine finishes on a dry note, enhanced by the tight nature of the fine chalky tannins, but there is enough fruit to soften the effect. There is a hint of nutmeg or sweet spice on the palate." Wine Advocate

"The Cerretta of this vintage is a wine that attracts attention. The aromas of dried cherries, red plums and dried leaves are reminiscent of the warmth of high summer. Spicy herbs add depth and hint at the complexity of the wine. On the palate, this Barolo is more savoury than fruity, with dark wild berries harmonising with wild herbs, pine and pressed flowers. Firm tannins give the wine an unmistakable gravitas and show that it is the boss." Wine Enthusiast

"A beam of pure cherry leads off, along with strawberry, licorice, tar and menthol flavors. Supple yet firm, with terrific balance and a long, tightly wound finish, revealing fruit, mineral and wild scrub notes. This is all about the texture." Wine Spectator

"An irresistible blend of small red fruits such as pomegranate, with notes of camphor, cinnamon, Parma violets and a deep spiciness. Fruit richness and concentration dominate the delicate, refreshing palate, with equally graceful, fine-grained tannins and a sweet finish, despite its youth." Decanter

"For the Barolo DOCG Parussi, we left the confines of Serralunga and opted for a vineyard in Castiglione Falletto. Thanks to the characteristics of Nebbiolo, which is perfectly capable of capturing the differences in microclimate and soil composition and translating them into sensations, the result amazed us. Structured, important, austere. Made with Nebbiolo grapes from our vineyard in the MGA Parussi in Castiglione Falletto." Franco Massolino

Parussi is the most open-hearted and fruity Barolo in Massolino's 2019 collection. It has a striking immediacy and sweetness in the mid-palate. Juicy red and purple berries, spices and mint combine in the glass. On the palate, Parussi is silky, floral and medium-bodied, displaying all the sensuality typical of Castiglione Falletto's Barolos. Best of all, Parussi can be drunk much earlier than the wines from Serralunga. SUPERIORE.DE

"Pure ruby red colour. Great depth of fruit on the nose, with salty and mineral notes. Not quite open, but captivating, fragrant and lifted and with quite a lot of substance. Juicy acidity and still shy fruit. Mineral and with fine, super-long tannins, while the fresh acidity emphasises the ripe raspberry fruit. Wonderful length and juiciness. Fine but powerful." Jancis Robinson

"This 2019 is fully focused on restrained root flavours like rhubarb and liquorice, wrapped in sweet violet, rose, redcurrant and pomegranate. It's quite austere, with a good concentration of blood orange on the finish, but thick, dusty and austere tannins." Decanter

"This pure red exudes rose, strawberry, cherry, iron and eucalyptus flavors. Linear, with a firm spine of tannins and lively acidity for support, this shows excellent balance and length." Wine Spectator

"Very pretty with pure and fresh fruit and concentrated tannins. Medium to full-bodied with ultra-fine tannins and a bright and lively finish. Shows tension and brightness. Flowers and sliced strawberries on the finish." James Suckling

"The Massolino 2019 Barolo Parussi has dark fruits and savoury spices that make for a very firm and compact wine. This is a forward and quite muscular expression with fruit from one of the northernmost sites in Castiglione Falletto. The tannins show a certain firmness that will require a longer ageing period." Wine Advocate

"The Barolo Parussi 2019 is the only Barolo by Massolino from Castiglione Falletto. A wine of absolute grace and refinement, the 2019 is pure seduction. Fresh cut flowers, mint, sweet red berries, orange peel and rose petals rise from the glass. harvestwill discover an elegant, sublime Barolo that hits all the right notes. Don't miss it." Vinous

"The first Barolo from Massolino to be born outside the "borders" of Serralunga, in Castiglione Falletto, with a vinification of great finesse. On the nose, dogwood, a hint of peony and a final touch of fresh rosemary. The palate is crisp, with savoury tannins. Finishes with a fruity aftertaste." Luca Gardini

Ai Suma offers great balance and tension. Intense ruby red with garnet-coloured reflections. There is a lot of black fruit on the nose and on the palate, along with spices, tar and leather. The wine finishes with a hint of sweetness, but the natural acidity of the grape comes in to add a pinch of freshness at the end, emphasising the class of this wine. Full, powerful, full of character, but at the same time elegant, harmonious and very persistent - a Barbera in a class of its own every year. SUPERIORE.DE

"This is quite ripe and spicy with dried cherries, moist bark and hints of undergrowth. Medium- to full-bodied, dense and concentrated with a juicy core of red and dark berries and velvety tannins. Lingering and flavorful." James Suckling

"The Braida 2020 Barbera d'Asti Ai Suma shows a very ripe bouquet featuring air-dried fruit, raisin and prune. There is a lot of muscle and power in this wine delivered in terms of texture, concentration and alcohol that in this vintage measures a whopping 16%. Think of this as the Amarone of Asti. The finish is creamy soft and slightly sweet." Wine Advocate

"The Barolo DOCG Margheria comes from the calcareous soil with a slightly higher proportion of sand than in our other sub-areas, which has a strong influence on its character. It was produced for the first time in 1985 and has great ageing potential. The grapes come from our vineyard in the MGA Margheria in Serralunga d'Alba." Franco Massolino

Barolo Margheria is very refined and elegant, but also classically austere, like so many top wines of the 2019 vintage. Bright red berry fruits, wild flowers, mint, blood orange, rose petals and cinnamon adorn this very beautiful, nuanced Barolo. Margheria is medium-bodied, and despite its austerity, it is very pretty, not to mention incredibly inviting. It will be even better in a few years when the tannins soften. SUPERIORE.DE

"Rich garnet red colour with a fine shimmer. Presents itself on the nose with notes of graphite and salt varnish, then rose petals and raspberry. Full-bodied and dense on the palate, expands powerfully, then a little rough on the final." Falstaff

"Beautiful lustrous mid ruby. Firm, serious minerally nose with cherry laced with oatmeal notes and iodine hints. Complex. Juicy compact cherry with spectacular, chewy tannins. Great tactile fruit finish and fantastically balanced." Jancis Robinson

"The 2020 Barolo Margheria is a very pretty wine that shows the gentler side of the year. Dried herbs, menthol, incense, new leather and licorice all take shape in the glass. The 2020 is a soft, uncharacteristically open-knit Margheria that will drink well with only minimal cellaring." Vinous

"This Margheria Barolo is a stunning expression of elegance, with captivating high-toned fruit and delicate hints of strawberry tops. The palate is refined and graceful, with fine-grained tannins and mouthwatering acidity that enhance the pure, precise flavors. A true embodiment of finesse, this wine is a standout example of the cru's potential." Wine Enthusiast

"I like the freshness and vivid red-fruited character. Medium-bodied with firm, slightly chewy tannins. It’s compact and structured with a tense and lively aftertaste. Vivid and bright with hibiscus undertones to the orange and berry character. Try from 2027, but already very pretty." James Suckling

Rose petals, spices and red-coloured fruit float in the glass, supported by fine, racy tannins. On the palate, the typical, medium-bodied characteristics of Bricco delle Viole are evident, while the contours are soft and the wine's personality demands the next sip. Vajra fans should give it a few more years to mature, despite its current accessibility. SUPERIORE.DE

"Impressive berry nose, spiced up with balsamic aromas; elegant yet powerful structure, the tannins are well integrated, has character and a seductively fresh finish." Vinum

"Modern nose with still noticeable wood influence, dark red berries, slightly gelled. Behind this, however, it becomes exciting with earthy mineral notes and red and violet flowers. Juicy and dense with a melting texture, very elaborate, sweet tannin texture, berry, rich final with a fine tannic attack on the finish." Weinwisser

"Sparkling ruby colour with garnet shimmer. Appealing nose with rich notes of plums, raspberries and roses. Juicy and appealing attack and finish, grippy tannins in many fine layers, fine melting on the final." Falstaff

"Wonderful roundness after a light animal scent. A ballet dancer with muscles - and a certain tenderness." Jancis Robinson

"Historically, the Bricco delle Viole is the highest Barolo and remains the highest of the Vajra bottlings. The vines from 1931, 1949 and 1968 have a round shape and early ripeness. Smoky violets and crushed slate characterise the aromas. On the palate, dried strawberries and purple plum flesh offer fruitiness, followed by minerality and lift from crushed red stones, and mace and clove provide a sweet spice on the finish." Decanter

"Rose petals, racy plums and cherries with subtle white pepper spice and minerals. The taut, full-bodied palate is gripped by fine, mineral-structured tannins. Powerful, rich and vertical in the centre before a long, mineral finish. It's a pleasure to taste now, but it will be even better in two to three years." James Suckling

"The Barolo Bricco delle Viole 2020, Vajra's flagship wine, is very good. Dark cherry, cherry, blood orange, spice and lavender are nicely amplified. The 2020 is graceful and elegant, but its youthful Nebbiolo tannins will need some time to settle down. The 2020 is another wine that piques my keen interest with its sublime balance." Vinous

"The nose of this Barolo is intoxicating, with spiced cherries, plums and warm violets in bloom. Notes of leather, truffle and forest floor give it a depth that oozes from the glass. On the palate, the cherry reveals itself in all its splendour: fresh, macerated, preserved, everything is there. This is joined by sweet tea with cola and sassafras, leading to supple tannins that give the wine the necessary structure without overpowering it, and a lively acidity that keeps every sip pure and fresh and ensures that the bottle empties too quickly." Wine Enthusiast

"Elegant and graceful, with a silky texture, this red wine evokes aromas and flavours of strawberries, cherries, roses, mint and minerals. Firmly structured and lively, with balance and a resonant, energetic finish. It shows excellent harmony, finesse and length." Wine Spectator

Barbera d'Alba Superiore Fides from the famous Mosconi vineyard offers a very nuanced bouquet characterised by blackberry, black cherry, cassis and plum on the one hand and pronounced mineral notes on the other. Fides offers a dark concentration and a soft, intense texture. Lavender, mint and sweet floral notes give it additional vigour and make it one of the best single-vineyard Barberas in Piedmont every year. SUPERIORE.DE

"Fruit for this wine is sourced from an excellent site in Monforte d'Alba. The Pio Cesare 2021 Barbera d'Alba Superiore Vigna Mosconi Fides is dark in color and rich and concentration. The wine offers a soft texture with plenty of dark fruit and blackberry. Those bleed nicely into sweet spice and light toast over a full-bodied finish." Wine Advocate

"The Barolo DOCG Parafada is perfect for long ageing and surprising development. Elegant, refined, austere. Vinified in vats, matured in large barrels. Made with Nebbiolo grapes from our vineyard in the MGA Parafada in Serralunga d'Alba." Franco Massolino

Barolo Parafada is fabulous. The natural richness of this site blends with transparency and class to produce a weightless yet powerful, highly nuanced Barolo that hits all the right notes. On the nose, dark cherry, lavender, spices, mint, rose petals and liquorice. And on the palate, it is the interplay of richness and lightness that elevates the Parafada to the realm of the truly sublime. SUPERIORE.DE

"The Barolo Parafada 2020 is a delicate, concentrated wine. Bright red fruits, mint, white pepper and crushed herbs are all nicely delineated. This medium-bodied Barolo has class and is very approachable now, but it needs time to show its best side." Vinous

"This Barolo enchants with a captivating blend of herbal notes that include dried thyme, rosemary and a hint of mint. Tart red fruits, such as sour cherry and redcurrant, intertwine with tantalising spices such as cinnamon and clove. The palate is generous and round, offering ample flavours of ripe red berries, fresh herbs and a subtle earthiness reminiscent of damp forest floor. Pleasant, well-integrated tannins provide structure, while the harmonious balance between herbal elements, fruit and earth creates a truly beautiful expression of Nebbiolo." Wine Enthusiast

"Notes of dried raspberries, cherries, dried orange peel and ground spices. Some tar. Medium-bodied, structured and firm, with polished tannins. I like the energy and length of this wine. Round and refined with a bright finish. Very well made." James Suckling