Wines from Piedmont

Barbaresco Vanotu is the most powerful Barbaresco from Pelissero and also the top wine every year. Attractive garnet red colour, concentrated, hearty bouquet with fine tobacco and leather notes. Lush, deep and multi-layered in the glass, it offers generous dark fruit, mocha, spices, liquorice, plum and sweet French oak. A spectacular and masculine wine with great ageing Storage potential. SUPERIORE.DE

"Shows cherry and berry flavors, framed by sweet spices and balsamic notes of eucalyptus and sandalwood. Though light in weight, this red is firmly structured and balanced, with fine length." Wine Spectator

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

After ten years of ageing in wooden barrels, the Riserva Magia offers a wonderfully round bouquet with vinous aromas of dark fruits and spices, subtly underpinned by notes of tobacco and vanilla. On the palate, a heavy sweetness with elegant tannin and a fruity-bitter finish. A valuable digestif at a high level. SUPERIORE.DE

Boca 2012 is always a very harmonious, great wine and this year close to perfection. Balsamic notes on the nose, surrounded by a distinctive scent of small red berries and Amarena cherries. Very powerful in the mouth with a wonderfully stable acidity, which provides an irrepressible freshness. The primary aromas are dominated by blackberries, blackcurrants and ripe cherries. Smooth and powerful as it progresses, its sensory harmony as well as its potential are more than convincing.

The grapes for Christoph Künzli's top wine come from the best small vineyards of the Boca DOC. The soils there consist of humus-poor porphyry of volcanic origin with a light red colour and are rich in salts and minerals. This minerality of the soils and the distinctive structure and class of the Nebbiolo grape combine in the winery's flagship to create an expressive, brilliant dream of a wine that has long enjoyed cult status among connoisseurs. SUPERIORE.DE

"The 2012 Boca is immediately open and accessible. The bouquet is perfumed and floral with rose potpourri, lavender and rose hip. There is a slightly dry and perhaps more evolved quality to the inner fruit on hand with sun-dried cassis or cranberry. Pretty background tones of smoke, ash and tar add to the overall complexity of the aromas." Wine Advocate

"The 2012 Boca is fabulous. Rich, ample and deep, the 2012 offers a level of pure immediacy that, while not typical of this wine, does mean that the 2012 will drink well with only minimal cellaring. Even so, I expect the 2012 will age beautifully because of its palate density and weight. Wild cherry, sweet tobacco, licorice, smoke and underbrush build into the powerful finish. As always, the Boca presents slightly darker shades of Nebbiolo." Vinous

The grapes for the estate's classic Barolo (first harvest in 1881) come from the vineyards/communes of Ornato, La Serra, Briccolina in Serralunga d'Alba, Gustava and Garretti in Grinzane Cavour, Roncaglie in La Morra, Ravera in Novello and, from the 2015 vintage, also from Mosconi in Monforte d'Alba. It is more of a traditional, classic Barolo with an exciting bouquet of deep, dark fruit and a pretty potpourri of rose petals, spices, smoke and tar. It is full-bodied and firm on the palate, opening up with plenty of dense tannins, very powerful, with pressure and a full bite on the finish, designed for a long life. SUPERIORE.DE

"Ingratiating aromas of forest fruits, flowers and mushrooms; supple texture, the acidity well integrated, tightly woven tannin, ends on flavours of ripe stone fruit and spices." Vinum

"Dense, fruity bouquet with rich red fruit and ripe cherries. An intense, juicy-melting drink, ripe cherries, modern Barolo, juicy finish, polished tannins, lingers with ripe fruit." Weinwisser

"Medium transparent garnet red colour with a slightly brightening rim. Fine and elegant aromas of wild berries, sour cherries, some blood orange and light herbal flavours on the nose. Gripping on the palate with flavours of black tea, very present tannins and a multi-layered final." Falstaff

"Sourced from vineyards spreads across the region, this 2020 offers a gentle aroma of cherry and forest berries, sous bois and a touch of menthol. There's more verticality and intensity here compared to the Barbaresco, with fine, round tannins, all wrapped up in some energetic acidity. Dark cherry, mint and hints of liquorice and herbs define this classy effort." Decanter

"A blend of cherry, strawberry, rose, tar and underbrush aromas and flavours highlight this elegant, solid red wine. Smooth in texture until dusty tannins emerge on the finish. Overall very balanced, with a very long finish." Wine Spectator

"Very primary fruit with beautiful flavours of peaches, strawberries, berries and flowers. It is medium to full-bodied, with the character of bitter citrus, cedar, chocolate and coffee beans. Firm on the finish. It needs two or three years to open up and will mature for a very long time." James Suckling

Barolo Prapò comes from Serralunga d'Alba and is, as expected, the most powerful and structured of the various single-vineyard wines from this ambitious estate. At the same time, it is also the most closed at the beginning and, with its introverted nature, is made for a long ageing period. This site is one of the last where the grapes ripen, giving them plenty of time to develop slowly and carefully each year.

Bright, medium ruby-garnet colour. A potpourri of floral and spicy notes on the nose, plus some peach and strawberry. Very firm on the palate with initially sinewy Serralunga tannins and notes of iron, savoury, menthol, liquorice, lavender, preserved dark cherries and dried blackberries. With further aeration, an inspiring round and full mouthfeel emerges with such precise Nebbiolo stylistics that it is a joy to drink. Patience is required for this exceptional Barolo, which is guaranteed to be rewarded after a few more years of ageing in the bottle! SUPERIORE.DE

"Broad and dense, with plenty of power driving the cherry, raspberry, iron, stone and underbrush flavors. A bit closed at this stage, with the wall of stiff tannins leaving a strong grip on the finish." Wine Spectator

"The nose of this Prapò is very graceful - violets, cinnamon, almost sage and blood orange - and expresses all the elegance of Cerretta, to which this MGA is very similar. Refreshing and velvety, almost supple, it is a precise Barolo full of elegance despite a certain warmth in the dusty, intense finish." Decanter

"Soft and velvety, but very fine texture with a medium to full body. Open and juicy with strawberry and cherry character, as well as potpourri and sandalwood. Also roses. Best after 2026, but already very attractive and flattering on the palate." James Suckling

"Cru di Serralunga", a refined refinement that produces a very crisp fruit. Wild plum on the nose, then sage, toasted notes and floral nuances, gerbera. Spicy on the palate, with fruity hints and notes of medicinal herbs. Closes with spicy notes." Luca Gardini

"The Barolo Prapò 2019 is probably the finest Prapò I have ever tasted from Ceretto. Dark cherry, plum, lavender, rose petals, menthol, liquorice and spice are amplified in this broad, explosive Barolo. An enormous kick of Serralunga acidity and tannin emphasises the finish." Vinous

"Intense ruby colour with a slight garnet rim. Hints of black tea, some truffle, then lots of raspberry. Full-bodied and dense on the palate, shows plenty of present tannin, is very well integrated, flavours of plums and raspberries, fine melting in the final." Falstaff

"With aromas of dark cherries, preserved raspberries, cloves and dried roses, this wine floats from the glass with grace and class. The palate is firm and well-structured, with solid tannins and an energetic acidity that lifts the notes of mixed wild berries, tobacco and tea, finishing with a chalky minerality." Wine Enthusiast

"The organic Ceretto 2019 Barolo Prapò, whose fruit comes from Serralunga d'Alba, is a natural addition to a portfolio of wines representing some of the best cru sites in the appellation. This wine shows the particular power and fruit concentration for which this site is known, and also a lovely hint of sweetness with dried cherries and raspberries softening the mineral tones and ferrous flavours. This wine manages the balancing act between power and elegance - no easy feat." Wine Advocate

The cru sites Liste, Terlo, Baudana, Gabutti, Ravera di Monforte and Mosconi are the origins of the grapes for the terrificVia Nuova. It is a monumental, exciting wine that combines the best that the vintage had to offer. Explosive in the glass, with breathtaking aromatic depth, it is stunningly beautiful from the first sip. Dark macerated cherry, lavender, spice, menthol and rose petals are enhanced by the underlying acidity and tannin that give the wine its energy and drive. Via Nuova is a wine of exceptional harmony, purity and finesse with an everlasting finish. SUPERIORE.DE

"Shiny, lightening garnet red, light rim. Exceedingly fragrant nose of fresh roses, lots of raspberry and strawberry, a little candyfloss. Polished, finely meshed tannin, red berry fruit, tobacco on the final." Falstaff

"Fascinating aromatic complexity that keeps your nose hovering over the glass. Raspberries with ginger biscuits, flowers and a twist of basil. There’s a deeper layer of crushed goji berries and talc-like minerals, too. Full, intense, silky and dainty with well-integrated tannins that even add a chocolatey touch. So tempting to drink now, but better from 2024." James Suckling

"The 2018 Barolo Via Nuova is marked by palpable brightness and tension that lend energy. Like all of these wines, the 2018 is restrained in feel, but all the elements are so well balanced. Freshly cut flowers, mint, crushed rocks, chalk and white pepper give the Via Nuova notable energy. Intense veins of supporting tannin and minerality provide the backbone." Vinous

"This is an organic blend of fruit from six MGA sites: Terlo and Liste (in Barolo), Ravera di Monforte and Mosconi (in Monforte d’Alba) and Gabutti and Baudana (in Serralunga d’Alba). The 2018 Barolo Via Nuova is fermented in steel and aged in oak according to time-tested local tradition. This mid-weight blended Barolo has a more prominent herbal or balsam signature at the back of red and purple fruits, licorice and pressed violet." Wine Advocate

Ceretto's Barolo Bussia comes from one of the most famous cru sites bordering the municipalities of Monforte d'Alba and Barolo, sourcing its Nebbiolo fruit from a 7,000 square metre plot in Bussia Soprana in Monforte d'Alba. Just 3,500 1/1 bottles and 200 magnums are bottled.

Sparkling, bright garnet red colour. On the nose, it seduces with delicate notes of wild berries, white cherry, liquorice and truffle. The palate is explosive, lively and full of energy. Its rich and lively flavours of cranberry and pomegranate are very finely elaborated, its sweetness in the middle of the palate and the fine creaminess and fine-meshed tannin, which is characteristic of the best Bussia-Barolos, are impressive. SUPERIORE.DE

"Brilliant medium ruby red colour. More concentration and depth with a clear, mineral core and concentrated but embryonic fruit. On the palate, a fantastic tannic centre with raspberry fruit wrapped in fine, firm tannins. Long and sensationally balanced." Jancis Robinson

"A fine and open Bussia with a smoky, grilled meat and spice character in the plum fruit. Medium to full body. Soft, velvety and juicy. This wine will develop into something very serious. Needs three or four years to open up. Best after 2025." James Suckling

"The Barolo Bussia 2019 is rich, deep and explosive, with all the profound, spicy and balsamic notes that are so typical of Bussia. Bussia is a broad, lush Barolo that is impressive from start to finish. All the elements are very well balanced. There is plenty of tannin, but it is well integrated into the wine. After some time in the glass, the wine reveals its inner perfume and explosive energy. This aromatically beguiling, multi-layered Barolo is magnificent." Vinous

"The Ceretto 2019 Barolo Bussia is an organic wine and a wine of beautiful depth and streamlined intensity. This Barolo offers aromas of dark fruit, but also of crushed stone, rust, a hint of exotic spices or grilled herbs and fresh liquorice root. The ensemble is beautiful, and what stands out most is the polished persistence and silky texture of the mouthfeel." Wine Advocate

"Bright ruby red colour with a delicately brightening rim. Expressive and clear nose of raspberries, cedar wood and some cold smoke, with a candied citrus fruit finish. Compact and tightly woven on the palate, with great tension and rich pressure, lots of salt, great length!" Falstaff

"The elegant nose opens with pristine cherry aromas supported by subtle notes of clove, anise, rosewood and tea. The focused palate continues to highlight ripe cherries and evolves into savory elements. Well-crafted tannins and crunchy acidity give the wine vigor and lift. The wine is generous, rich and superbly balanced." Wine Enthusiast

Twenty years have passed since the Berta family left Nizza Monferrato. Today, with the acquisition of Castelletto dell'Annunziata, they are returning to the homeland where Paolo began writing his impressive story. To celebrate the return, a special grappa is being produced. A Piedmontese grappa, made from the best marcs that this land at the foot of the mountains has to offer. A new product, but with an old history. A homage to the land and a grappa that tastes like coming home.

Warm amber tone. Complex bouquet of ripe fruit, cherry, tobacco, cocoa, vanilla and a hint of orange blossom. Rich and enveloping in the drink, very seductive aroma that corresponds with the impressions of the nose. A versatile Grappa Riserva with personality! SUPERIORE.DE

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

"Beguiling aromas of stone fruit, dried flowers and tobacco; harmonious, albeit still very youthful structure, the tannins as if chiselled from stone, great length. Excellent food companion that impresses with its wealth of finesse." Vinum

"Rich fruit and flowers with real spread across the palate. Impressive. Polished leather and liquorice. Dry, but not too dry, finish. Very fine and fresh. To bite into." Jancis Robinson

Bricco delle Viole is the vineyard that has taught us patience and naturally defines the style of our craft," says Aldo Vaira about this MGA. Graceful and austere at the same time, it has sweet violet and pomegranate flavours, restrained in style but not without complexity in depth. The attack is firm, with steely acidity and very austere tannins on the gums, dusty and muscular. It will soften as it matures in the bottle." Decanter

"Flavours of gravel, flowers and berries merge into a medium to full body with firm and velvety tannins and a juicy finish. It is very original now and needs time to develop in the bottle." James Suckling

"Bright ruby-garnet colour with a subtly brightening rim. Somewhat restrained on the nose, a little sealing wax after aeration, raspberries, fine earthy notes, cranberries. Creamy entry on the palate, but immediately shows power and muscle, plenty of complex tannins, savoury, deep, powerful." Falstaff

"A juicy Barolo with lively acidity and a fluid profile that exudes aromas and flavours of cherries, raspberries, mown hay, minerals and eucalyptus. Taut yet long, with outstanding potential." Wine Spectator

"The Barolo Bricco delle Viole 2019 offers a beguiling combination of depth and energy. Dark and strong in the glass, but also quite restrained, the 2019 will need a few more years to unfold. Black cherry, graphite, crushed rocks, mint, sage and incense open up in the glass, but only with some restraint. I particularly like the way the 2019 opens up in its sonorous, extended finish, but it remains a decidedly brooding Barolo whose best days are still far in the future." Vinous

"Lifted aromas of crushed cherries and raspberries mixed with blue violets and savory spice on the nose. Super-fine tannins with crushed chalk; very floral with a bright and lifted palate. Mouth-watering acidity. Alluring, captivating, energetic and precise." Wine Enthusiast

"With its high altitude in the hills west of Barolo, Bricco delle Viole is a world apart in terms of soils (with marl and fossils from Sant'Agata) and even harvest times. Slow and careful ageing, typical of the 2019 vintage, gives it a very delicate and ethereal expression with floral notes, wild mint and liquorice. This organic wine is solid in composition and structure." Wine Advocate

"A great classic of elegance, on the nose notes of red raspberries and clementine peel, a hint of nutmeg and wild iris. On the palate, it is juicy and exciting, with a return of red fruits and spicy notes. It finishes with a floral hint." Luca Gardini

"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 ideal exposure 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 so typical of this famous hillside vineyard in Neive. Red-purple fruits, 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 stamina. SUPERIORE.DE

"Freshly mown hay and green tea accents frame cherry, strawberry and white pepper flavors in this sleek yet dense red. Overall, this remains balanced and elegant, with a beam of fruit persisting on the aftertaste." Wine Spectator

"Exciting and racy red fruits with dried herbs and hibiscus with undertones of nutshells. Clean and lively on the palate with medium body and compact, ripe tannins that give the wine a firm and long mouthfeel. Velvety finish. Attractive already, but even better from 2025." James Suckling

"The Massolino 2020 Barbaresco Albesani from the village of Neive shows more balance at this young age than the winery's classic Barbaresco. This single-vineyard wine also has more depth with nuances of dark berries, cassis, blue flowers and crushed limestone. The floral aromas emerge with beautiful intensity. The wine's tannins are very fine and silky." Wine Advocate

"The Barbaresco Albesani 2020 has more substance and depth than the pure Barbaresco. The differences between the two wines are not so pronounced at first, but that comes with aeration. With time, macerated cherries, plums, spices, lavender, rose petals and sage develop in the glass. All the richness and power of the Albesani come out. For harvestwho want to understand what makes Albesani tick, this is the wine for you!" Vinous

"Very restrained on the nose, with smoky forest notes, preserved flowers and chocolate, wrapped in a fresh, elegant currant fruit. Very tasty on the palate, with fresh acidity and velvety, chewy, youthful tannins that are very precise and woven into the finish. Given its firm structure, this is not an easy wine to drink now, but it shows a quality in terms of texture and liquorice length that will keep it interesting for a long time." Decanter

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 fruits 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 combine 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

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." 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

Alteni di Brassica - its name "alteni", the stone walls that border the vineyards, and "brassica", a yellow spring flower of the region, in no way suggest a wallflower existence. Rather, they are synonymous with the region's first Sauvignon Blanc, which Angelo Gaja has been growing since 1983. Orchard fruits, lime, mint, white flowers and white pepper lend this taut, nervy Sauvignon plenty of character and complexity. All elements are very well balanced. This is a great example of the Gaja style today. A highly elegant wine that impresses with its aromatic bouquet, fine fruit, great depth and beautiful length. SUPERIORE.DE

"Beautiful aromas of sliced pears and minerals with hints of stones and peaches. Medium to full body with a creamy texture and attractive tension and mouthfeel. Just a hint of youthful spiciness." James Suckling

Intense ruby red with garnet reflections. Rich and complex bouquet, with numerous hints of black fruits and underlying notes of vanilla, oak, some tar, liquorice and cocoa. Full, powerful, full of character, but at the same time elegant and sensual taste with a delicately sweet aftertaste, harmonious and very delicate. SUPERIORE.DE

"Intense ruby red. The nose is very broad and shows structure and complexity. Notes of ripe red fruits, liquorice, vanilla and toasted wood, also hints of leather and cocoa powder. Juicy on the palate, elegantly full-bodied, harmonious and persistent finish." Falstaff

"The 2019 Barbera d’Asti Ai Suma is laced with blackberry jam, crème de cassis, sweet spice, licorice, lavender and plenty of sweet French oak. Silky and supple, with terrific balance, this decidedly extroverted Asti Barbera delivers the goods, and then some." Vinous

"Bright ruby red. Barolo Pira oscillates between fresh fruit and mild spices. Grown on 25-60 year old vines, the flawless cherry fruit is illuminated by ethereal top notes, toasted almonds and juniper berries alternate with rosemary, sour cherries and sloes. The nose continually defoliates as it aerates, shifting like a kaleidoscope. On the palate, the ripe tannins take over and lay the velvety foundation on which the fruit blows on parade to flow straightforwardly and transparently over the drinker's palate with oriental-like spice. Notes of sandalwood, juniper and incense are underpinned by fine cherry notes, the precisely crafted acidic nerve is perfectly enveloped by the tightly woven tannin, giving it freshness and drinkability. A wine of uncomplicated distinction with superb length. Please get the big glasses out of the cupboard. Timely caraffing is strongly recommended." Sebastian Bordthäuser (Sommelier und Wein–Journalist)

"The 2017 Barolo Pira is a powerful, intensely savory wine. Dark cherry, herbs, leather incense and licorice all add to an impression. The Pira Barolo is one of the most reticent wines in this entire collection. It is hard to read today, despite its obvious weight and character." Vinous

"Dense and muscular, with cherry, strawberry, rose, mineral and eucalyptus flavors in the grip of assertive tannins. Despite being lithe and light–bodied, this red finds equilibrium in the end, with the red fruit lingering on the finish." Wine Spectator

"Bright ruby red with bright orange reflections. In the nose wild mushrooms, black and even some white truffle, plus rosehip tea, red currant and blackberry. Freshly ground pepper and crushed juniper provide spice and plenty of ethereal aromas. Clear, bright and precise on the palate. The fruit comes out much more clearly now. Totally juicy and fortunately flanked again and again by the acid structure. Invigorating, animating to drink and slender. The fruit now appears small-berried and positively acidic on the palate. The initially earthy aromas only have a subordinate effect in the finish. The show clearly belongs to sour cherry, lovage and blackberry. Iodiney, almost salty and with a fleshy character, it makes you want more. This is pure umami." Marian Henß (Sommelier)

"The 2017 Barolo Rocche di Castiglione is silky and polished from the start. Nevertheless, there is a lot of depth behind the elegant façade. Juicy red fruits, spices, tobacco, cedar, leather and dried flowers combine in a sensual, lush Barolo that captures the essence of Rocche." Vinous

"A juicy red wine with aromas and flavours of soaked cherries, raspberries and plums. It gains depth with accents of flowers, earth and wild herbs as it transitions into a long, delicious finish. Skilfully balanced and persistent on the finish." Wine Spectator

"Roagna has its modern winery, with most of the structure underground, at the foot of the Castiglione Falletto village at the center of the appellation. Made with fruit grown around the corner, the 2017 Barolo Rocche di Castiglione (with 2,680 bottles released) offers a sharp and linear presentation with crisp berry fruit, crushed stone, rose and licorice root. This is one of the most expressive vineyard sites in the appellation, I find. The wine ferments in oak over two months with submerged cap and then ages for five long years in a combination of oak cask and cement." Wine Advocate

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

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

"The 2017 Barbaresco Pajè offers a compelling blend of sweet red fruits, cinnamon, blood orange, leather, cedar and tobacco. The 2017 impresses with its medium weight structure, which unfolds well with a little time in the glass and shows its natural breadth and creaminess. There's a good amount of immediacy and overall appeal here too." Vinous

"A tightly wound, sleek red marked by floral, cherry, menthol and mineral aromas and flavors. Reveals ripeness midpalate and builds to a lingering, detailed finish. Shows plenty of energy and complexity." Wine Spectator

"Showing a transparent or almost naked fruit quality, the 2017 Roagna Barbaresco Pajè is a beautiful and graceful wine that retains an exceptional sense of lightness and elegance despite everything we have heard about this hot and dry vintage. The finish of the Pajè is exceptional, with chiselled aromas of wild berries, iris root, liquorice and a subtle hint of white pepper. The mouthfeel is characterised by extremely fine tannins." Wine Advocate

The vivacious Chiara Boschis has been a rather modernist Barolo winemaker for over 25 years, although she now uses much less new oak than in the past. She is best known for her Cannubi, but her Mosconi, from 1 ha of this top vineyard in Monforte d'Alba, can be just as good in some vintages.

Medium to deep crimson. Very nice nose of earthy, complex cherry and blackberry fruit with subtle oak notes and a hint of pine. On the palate juicy and smooth red fruit, very concentrated. Delicious, crisp tannins. It is a plump, full-bodied and very concentrated wine that is assertive and youthful when young - but in balance. It is darker and fruitier than most classic Barolos, yet always structured, complex, tight and long. SUPERIORE.DE

"Sparkling, dark garnet with light rim. Very fragrant nose of wild raspberry, dark cherry, plum, clove and some cinnamon. Full and substantial on the palate, opens up with lots of hearty, grippy tannin, nice melting core, of raspberry and tobacco, long finish." Falstaff

"Plenty of tense, wild-strawberry character to this with bright minerals, too. Medium-bodied with a punchy core of bright fruit, tight tannins and a tense, crystalline finish. Needs time to even out. Best from 2024." James Suckling

"The 2018 Barolo Mosconi shows all the gravitas and natural darkness of this site, but in miniature. Black cherry, plum, gravel, smoke, crushed rocks and incense fill out the layers. There is plenty of Mosconi muscle, even if the volume of the best years isn't there." Vinous

"This red puts it all together—macerated cherry and plum fruit, a silky texture, vibrant structure and elegance—without sacrificing power or harmony. Complex and long, with a haunting finish that provides rose, menthol, licorice and iron accents." Wine Spectator

"Chiara Boschis has recently purchased more vineyards in the Mosconi cru located at a cool 370 meters in elevation in Monforte d'Alba. This is terrific news for those who love the focus and precision that Chiara Boschis is known for. The Mosconi carries generous fruit weight and volume over a streamlined mouthfeel and tight tannins. The wine ends with fresh notes of blackberry, plum and wild rose." Wine Advocate

"The wine is quite a dense ruby colour in the glass, with restrained forest floor scents and whiffs of rosemary, chocolate and wild red fruits. Filigreed and complex, the palate has a delicate attack, firm tannins and good density, with flavours of tar and plenty of violet and pomegranate. Biting and still austere but softened by the French barriques - where the wine ages for two years." Decanter

"Ruby red with bright reflections. The nose delights with a bouquet of floral notes: Mauve, hibiscus and hollyhocks are surrounded by fruity cherries and preserved raspberries and spicy aromas of black pepper, cedar and juniper berries. The red fruit is underpinned by dark aromatics and vegetal notes of redcurrant and blackberry leaves. Initially subtle on the palate until it brings out the iron fist in a velvet glove. The gentle attack calmly builds up immense pressure with great inner tension on the mid palate. The extract-sweet fruit of cherries and a fine core of sloes mingle with marzipan and noble bitter notes of the ripe tannins, which give it additional length. The exemplary use of wood sets the scene for exactly what characterises a Barbaresco: Concentration with simultaneous lightness and transparency." Sebastian Bordthäuser (Sommelier und Wein-Journalist)

"The 2017 Barbaresco Faset is open, graceful and quite pretty. Sweet dried cherry, incense, tobacco, mint and dried flowers are all nicely lifted in this attractive, medium-bodied Barbaresco. Notes of cedar, tobacco, incense and dried flowers give this wine aromatic presence and lift. The Faset is another wine in this series that will drink well with minimal cellaring." Vinous

"This red shows a supple texture and macerated cherry and strawberry fruit, which initially add up to a lot of pleasure. Yet there is a solid base of tannins too, a promise of this wine's future potential. Comes together on the fresh finish, where an echo of red fruit and emerging mineral elements linger." Wine Spectator

Albesani leaves nothing to be desired, in expression and character it is simply grandiose. The fresh bouquet of flowers, chalk, tobacco and cherries continues on the palate, where a beguilingly silky tannin and aromatic intensity virtually rob the senses. A masterpiece from Luca Roagna! SUPERIORE.DE

"The 2017 Barbaresco Albesani is delicate and ethereal. Crushed flowers, sweet dried cherry, cinnamon and orange zest give this deceptively light-bodied Barbaresco a good deal of both nuance and complexity. All the elements are so nicely balanced. All things considered, the 2017 is an understated wine from this Neive site." Vinous

"This red features excellent balance and complexity, with a supple and delicate texture despite a solid matrix of tannins underneath. Reveals macerated cherry, plum and floral notes accented by licorice and mineral on the long, resonant finish." Wine Spectator