Nebbiolo

Critical Acclaim — Vintage 2022

94 pts — James Suckling
Bright and overtly fruity, this is full of intoxicating violets, cinnamon, blood oranges and black cherries, expressing mint and balsamic depth. Full-bodied with a soft, smooth attack, dusty yet velvety tannins and brilliant acidity. The chocolaty finish shows licorice and a mouth-coating texture. Delicious and balanced. Drink or hold.

93 pts — Vinous
The 2022 Barbaresco is a pretty rich, heady wine. Dark cherry/plum fruit, cloves, licorice and mocha build as the 2022 shows off its considerable depth. One of the few 2022s that is quite resonant texturally. The inclusion of some juice from Riserva lots is a great help. All things considered, this is a stellar showing.

92 pts — Jeb Dunnuck
Jeweled red color with aromas of ripe raspberry liqueur, fresh cherries, sweet herbs, and pressed flowers. Medium-bodied with ripe tannins and a clean, even finish. Juicy and approachable. Drink 2025–2040.

Winemaker Notes

Classic Barbaresco color with scents of spices, pepper, and black cherries. Powerful, firm, elegant, and ethereal.

About Produttori del Barbaresco

Founded in 1958, Produttori del Barbaresco is one of Italy's most revered wine cooperatives — and the benchmark producer for Barbaresco DOCG. The cooperative unites growers from the finest crus in the Barbaresco commune: Asili, Rabajà, Montefico, Montestefano, Ovello, Pora, and Rio Sordo. Under winemaker Aldo Vacca, Produttori remains committed to traditional Nebbiolo winemaking — long macerations, large Slavonian oak casks, and minimal intervention — producing wines of extraordinary purity, terroir expression, and age-worthiness at prices that consistently over-deliver.

Food Pairings

Fresh pasta with truffles or ragù, braised lamb, roasted game birds, aged Parmigiano-Reggiano, and Barolo-braised short ribs. Cellar through 2040 or decant 2–3 hours before serving now.

Product Details

• Producer: Produttori del Barbaresco
• Appellation: Barbaresco DOCG, Piedmont, Italy
• Grape: 100% Nebbiolo
• Vintage: 2022
• Aging: Large Slavonian oak casks
• Style: Full-bodied, structured, age-worthy
• Drink: Now–2040 (decant 2–3 hours)
• Format: 750ml

From arguably the greatest cooperative on earth, this Langhe Nebbiolo is Produttori del Barbaresco's most accessible expression — essentially a "declassified" Barbaresco made from the same high-quality Nebbiolo grapes, just from younger vines, offering an approachable, early-drinking window into one of Piedmont's most celebrated estates.

The Producer

Produttori del Barbaresco is the benchmark cooperative of the Langhe, renowned worldwide for their single-vineyard Riserva Barbarescos. Sourcing exclusively from members' vineyards in the Barbaresco DOCG, they combine traditional winemaking methods with an unwavering commitment to terroir. This Langhe Nebbiolo is the perfect entry point into their world — serious wine at an approachable price.

The 2024 Vintage

The 2024 growing season began with a mild winter and welcome rainfall in late 2023 and March 2024, partially restoring soil water reserves after nearly two years of severe drought. Mild temperatures brought an early bud break around March 20th in Barbaresco, setting the stage for a fresh, vibrant vintage with bright natural acidity and elegant fruit expression.

Tasting Profile

Classic Nebbiolo character in a more approachable, earlier-drinking style. Expect aromas of red cherry, dried rose petal, tar, and subtle earthiness. On the palate it's medium-bodied with bright acidity, fine tannins, and a clean, mineral-driven finish — all the hallmarks of great Nebbiolo without the decade-long wait.

Perfect Pairings

• Italian Classics: Pizza, pasta with meat ragù, lasagna Bolognese
• Meats & Charcuterie: Roasted chicken, fennel sausage, prosciutto, mild cheeses
• Earthy Dishes: Mushroom risotto, truffle-infused pasta, aged Parmigiano

Serve at 60–65°F. Decant for 30 minutes to open up. At $29.99, this is one of the most compelling values in Italian wine — Barbaresco pedigree at a Langhe price.

G.D. Vajra | Barolo Albe 2022 | Piedmont, Italy

Founded in 1972 by Aldo Vajra in the village of Vergne, G.D. Vajra is one of Barolo's most beloved and principled estates — a family winery that has never chased trends, instead letting the Nebbiolo grape and the land speak for themselves. The Barolo Albe marks its 50th consecutive vintage with the 2022 release, a milestone that speaks to the wine's enduring place in the estate's identity. Fruit is sourced from three distinct cru sites — Coste di Vergne, Fossati, and La Volta — blended to create a Barolo of remarkable versatility, accessibility, and value.

The 2022 vintage in Piedmont was warm and generous, producing wines of exceptional ripeness and early approachability without sacrificing the structure that defines great Barolo. This bottling delivers dark berry, pressed flower, and crushed stone on the nose, with a medium-plus palate, silky tannins, and a finish that rewards patience. Drink now or cellar through the decade ahead.

Expert Reviews - Vintage 2022 

Jeb Dunnuck — 93 Points:  A medium ruby color, the 2022 Barolo Albe marks the 50th vintage of this cuvée. Aromas of fresh cherries, spice, and ripe orange peel lead into a medium-bodied palate with purity and polish. Already quite appealing, this is a wine I would happily order by the glass, and it should drink beautifully over the coming decade. Drink 2026-2036.26

Kerin O'Keefe — 93 Points: The G.D. Vajra 2022 Barolo Albe has aromas of crushed red berry, lavender and eucalyptus. On the smooth, full-bodied palate, notes of star anise and blood orange accent a core of cherry marinated in spirits. Taut, fine-grained tannins provide polished support.

Technical Details

Variety: Nebbiolo  |  Vineyards: Coste di Vergne, Fossati, La Volta  |  Appellation: Barolo DOCG  |  Region: Piedmont, Italy  |  Vintage: 2022  |  Size: 750ml

Producer Notes

The Oddero estate is one of Piedmont’s most storied Barolo producers, with impressive vineyard holdings throughout the entirety of the denomination. The classic Barolo bottling incorporates younger vines from sites in La Morra as well as Bricco Fiasco in Castiglione Falletto, and draws from Bricco Chiesa, Capalot, and Galina. The 2021 vintage is a standout — aromatic, pliant, and wonderfully inviting, with crushed flowers, red and blue-toned fruit, spice, and perfumed notes. Fine, polished tannins and a long, savoury finish. Gorgeously approachable now but will keep evolving.

Expert Reviews — Vintage 2021

• Decanter 93 pts | Evocatively scented with wild red berries, vanillin, and spice. Fine tannins increase steadily across the palate alongside richness of raspberry fruit. Hints of tea and citrus lead to a savoury, mouth-cleansing finish. Gorgeously approachable now but will keep evolving. — Michaela Morris
• Vinous 92 pts | Fabulous. Aromatic, pliant, and wonderfully inviting. Crushed flowers, red/blue-toned fruit, spice, and perfumed notes build nicely in the glass. Polished, silky tannins wrap it all together in style. — Antonio Galloni

Food Pairings

• Braised beef short ribs or osso buco
• Truffle pasta or mushroom risotto
• Aged Parmigiano-Reggiano or Castelmagno
• Roasted lamb or wild boar

Valtellina Superiore — Italy's Hidden Gem for Nebbiolo Lovers

Nino Negri is the benchmark producer of Valtellina, the dramatic Alpine appellation in Lombardy where Nebbiolo — known locally as Chiavennasca — grows on steep, terraced granite slopes above the Adda River. Quadrio is the estate's entry-level Valtellina Superiore DOCG: a wine that captures the elegance, freshness, and aromatic complexity of mountain Nebbiolo at an exceptional price point, offering a compelling alternative to Barolo and Barbaresco for a fraction of the cost.

Winemaker Notes

Dark garnet-red in color with distinctive, fine aromas of small fruits, raspberry preserves, roses, and violets, with a delicate herbal note. Full and lively on the palate with tart fruit flavors, elegant tannins, and a lingering aftertaste with traces of prunes and toasty oak.

Vineyard & Provenance

• Grape: Nebbiolo (Chiavennasca)
• Appellation: Valtellina Superiore DOCG, Lombardy, Italy
• Producer: Nino Negri
• Vintage: 2021
• Size: 750ml

Food Pairings

A natural match for Alpine and Northern Italian cuisine — exceptional with braised beef, osso buco, risotto ai funghi, aged Bitto cheese, and charcuterie boards.

Producer Notes

Icardi is a certified organic estate in Piedmont’s Barolo zone — The Parej is their single-vineyard Barolo, made from 100% Nebbiolo grown on the estate’s organic vineyards. Roasted cherries, warmed clove, star anise, and dried floral hints rise from the glass as the wine opens. Mouthfilling on the palate with wild berries — fresh, dried, and preserved — combined with oak spice and superfine tannins. Dense and compact with plum, cherry, leather, forest floor, and tar. Well-balanced with a lingering finish. Best from 2027 through 2042.

Expert Reviews — Vintage 2019

• Wine Enthusiast 91 pts | Roasted cherries, warmed clove, and star anise with dried floral hints and wild thyme. Mouthfilling with wild berries, oak spice, and superfine tannins. Drink now–2040. — Jeff Porter
• Wine Spectator 91 pts | Dense and compact with plum, cherry, leather, forest floor, and tar. Well-balanced with a lingering finish and chalky tannins. Best from 2027–2042. — Bruce Sanderson

Food Pairings

• Braised beef short ribs or osso buco
• Truffle pasta or mushroom risotto
• Aged Parmigiano-Reggiano or Castelmagno
• Roasted lamb or wild boar

Renato Ratti Ochetti Langhe Nebbiolo — Piedmont, Italy 2024

For more than 50 years, the name Ratti has been indissolubly tied to Barolo — and to the very soul of Piedmontese winemaking. Renato Ratti was a pioneer who helped define the modern style of Nebbiolo, and today the estate in La Morra continues his legacy with the same commitment to elegance, transparency, and terroir. The Ochetti is their benchmark Langhe Nebbiolo: an ancient wine originally sourced from the sandy hills of Roero on the left bank of the Tanaro River, now blended with fruit from cooler sites in Dogliani for added freshness and lift. Fermented with full berries and approximately one week of skin contact, the 2024 emphasizes elegance over power — and delivers it beautifully. A Decanter Silver Medal winner.

The color is a transparent, luminous ruby-red with orange hints. The nose is bright and fragrant: cranberry, forest strawberry, raspberry, fresh flowers, orange zest, and warm spice. On the palate, it is medium-bodied, snappy, and lively — smooth tannins, bright acidity, and a clean, refreshing finish that is pleasantly bitter in the classic Nebbiolo tradition. This is Nebbiolo at its most approachable and joyful.

Jeb Dunnuck 89 • Decanter Silver Medal — "Bright and refreshing, with aromas of cranberries, fresh flowers, orange zest, and spice. Snappy and lively on the palate, with bright acidity and a clean, refreshing finish."

Expert Reviews — Vintage 2024

Jeb Dunnuck — 89 Points
Pouring a transparent red-orange hue, the 2024 Langhe Nebbiolo Ochetti is bright and refreshing, with aromas of cranberries, fresh flowers, orange zest, and spice. Historically sourced from Roero, the wine now also includes fruit from cooler sites in Dogliani, balancing the warmth of Roero with added freshness. Made with roughly one week of skin contact and fermented as of 2024 with full berries, the style emphasizes elegance rather than power. Medium-bodied, it’s snappy and lively on the palate, with bright acidity and a clean, refreshing finish.

• Producer: Renato Ratti, La Morra, Piedmont, Italy
• Vintage: 2024
• Appellation: Langhe Nebbiolo DOC
• Varietal: 100% Nebbiolo
• Vineyards: Roero (sandy hills, left bank of Tanaro) + Dogliani (cooler sites)
• Vinification: Full berry fermentation, ~1 week skin contact
• Size: 750ml
• Tasting Notes: Cranberry, forest strawberry, raspberry, orange zest, fresh flowers, warm spice, bright acidity
• Best Paired With: Grilled red meats, game, truffled fondue, agnolotti, spiced meat sauces, aged cheeses

Nebbiolo at its most elegant and joyful — Ratti’s Ochetti is the benchmark for what Langhe can deliver at this price.

Expert Reviews - Vintage 2020

The Wine Spectator 95 Points | This is supple and complex, delivering cherry, strawberry, summer meadow, earth, leather and iron aromas and flavors. Firmly structured, this picks up a hint of licorice as it winds down on the lingering finish, with tannins that are solid yet civilized. Shows fine potential. Best from 2028 through 2046. 1,670 cases made, 540 cases imported.

Jeb Dunnuck 92 Points | The medium red 2020 Barolo Cascina Nuova is spiced and fruity with notes of ripe grenadine, pink peppercorn, dried apricots, and polished leather. Open and approachable, it offers ripe, supple tannins, even acidity, and a clean finish with good length. It’s a very charming wine with a wide drinking window for enjoyment over the next 10 years.

Renato Ratti · Barolo Marcenasco · DOCG · Piedmont · Italy · 2020

Renato Ratti is one of Barolo’s most historically significant estates. The late Renato Ratti — winemaker, scholar, and cartographer — was among the first to map the Barolo crus in the 1970s, fundamentally shaping how the world understands the appellation’s terroir. Marcenasco is the estate’s flagship Barolo, sourced from their home vineyard in La Morra — a commune known for producing Barolo of elegance, aromatic complexity, and earlier accessibility relative to the more austere Serralunga style. The 2020 vintage in Piedmont was exceptional: warm and dry, producing wines of deep concentration, ripe tannins, and remarkable longevity. Dual 92 points from both Wine Spectator and Decanter.

The 2020 Marcenasco opens with a beam of cherry and red currant, revealing flashes of rose and wild herbs with a mineral underpinning — the hallmarks of La Morra Nebbiolo at its finest. On the palate, ripe black and red berry fruit, baked plum, and hints of tea leaf are framed by robust, open, grainy tannins. The finish is long, juicy, and persistent, emphasizing pure fruit with real charm and length. Best from 2026 through 2042.

Expert Reviews

“A beam of cherry and red currant courses through this racy red, revealing flashes of rose and wild herbs, with a mineral underpinning. This is persistent, with a long aftertaste that emphasizes the pure fruit. Best from 2026 through 2042.”
— Wine Spectator · 92 Points

“Ripe black and red berry fruit, baked plum, and hints of tea leaf. Robust and rich, open, grainy tannins frame the fruit, and the finish has nice juice and length. Shows real charm!”
— Decanter · 92 Points

• Producer: Renato Ratti, La Morra, Piedmont, Italy
• Vintage: 2020
• Appellation: Barolo DOCG
• Vineyard: Marcenasco, La Morra
• Varietal: 100% Nebbiolo
• Style: Dry red — elegant, aromatic, mineral
• Size: 750ml
• Tasting Notes: Cherry, red currant, rose, wild herbs, baked plum, tea leaf, mineral underpinning, grainy tannins, long finish
• Pairings: Bistecca alla Fiorentina, braised short rib, truffle risotto, aged Parmigiano-Reggiano, wild boar ragù
• Drink: 2026–2042

WS:92 · D:92 · Barolo DOCG — La Morra Nebbiolo from the estate that mapped the crus. Elegant, mineral, and built for the long haul.

A Classic Barbaresco from the Heart of Treiso

La Ganghija crafts traditional Barbaresco from the prized Treiso subzone of Piedmont, and their 2018 Barbaresco is a compelling expression of Nebbiolo at its most authentic — wild, complex, and built for the cellar. The 2018 vintage delivered exceptional ripeness across Piedmont, and this wine shows it: structured, aromatic, and layered with the kind of rustic elegance that defines great Barbaresco.

Expert Reviews - Vintage 2018

• Wine Enthusiast — 92 pts: “Penetrating aromas of warmed cherries soaked with cinnamon, clove and anise that develop into dried rose petals, forest floor. The palate has a core of savory spice wrapped around drying wild red berries and Alpine herbs framed by well-placed tannins and electric acidity. A wine worthy of the cellar. Drink now–2040.”
• Vinous — 92 pts: “A bold, pungent Treiso Barbaresco. Wild cherry, spice, leather, tobacco and menthol are front and center in this wild, pleasantly rustic Barbaresco. There is certainly plenty of character here.”

Buyer’s Notes

Bart Hopkins, 67Wine Buyer

Good varietal expression in this 2018 Barbaresco, with delicate aromas of spiced plums, rose petals, violets, strawberry blossoms, cinnamon, nutmeg and saddle leather. Medium bodied in the mouth with savory complexity and supple tannins that carry through the finish.

Winemaker Notes

La Ganghija Barbaresco 2018 750ml

Complex structure offering notes of wild berries, black cherry and liquorice combined with light spice and vanilla acquired during ageing in wood. Typically austere on the palate, but warm and embracing, with extraordinary persistence and freshness in the finish.

Vineyard & Provenance

• Grape: Nebbiolo
• Appellation: Barbaresco (Treiso), Piedmont, Italy
• Producer: La Ganghija
• Vintage: 2018
• Size: 750ml

Food Pairings

A natural match for the table — excellent with stews, slow-roasted wild game, hearty pasta, and strong cheeses.

Luca Roagna's Langhe Rosso is a masterclass in Piedmontese restraint — a Nebbiolo-based blend from the Pajé vineyard in Barbaresco, crafted to be approachable in its youth while carrying the hallmark depth and complexity of the estate. The 2020 vintage delivers a multifaceted, savory expression with vibrant acidity and silky structure.

Regenerative Agriculture. 

• Producer: Roagna
• Region: Langhe, Piedmont, Italy
• Grape: Nebbiolo
• Vintage: 2020
• Format: 750ml

• 94 James Suckling

  A multifaceted wine, super rich and profound, with aromas of embers, dried cherries, wild strawberries, violets and bright blood oranges. Medium-bodied and slightly firm, with dusty tannins coated by fruit. Very tasty, savory, slightly lifted and citrusy.

• 91 Wine Spectator

  This red exudes cherry, rose hip and mineral flavors, with vibrant acidity and pliable tannins. Balanced overall, with staying power on the finish.

Barolo's Most Elegant Single Cru — Monvigliero by Paolo Scavino

Paolo Scavino is one of Barolo's most revered producers, and the Monvigliero is the crown jewel of their single-vineyard lineup. Sourced from the stately Monvigliero vineyard in Verduno — widely regarded as the grand cru of the village — this cru was first bottled as a single vineyard wine in 2007 after the Scavino family purchased the site. Monvigliero is celebrated for its distinctly feminine character: floral, spicy, balsamic, and precise, with a finesse and aromatic complexity that sets it apart from the more powerful expressions of Barolo.

Expert Reviews - Vintage 2022

• Jeb Dunnuck — 95 pts: "Moving north to Verduno, the 2022 Barolo Monvigliero pours a bright ruby hue and remains slightly reserved at this stage, revealing aromas of preserved cranberries, white peach, candied orange, baking spice, ripe apricot, and dried earth. Medium-bodied, it has a more linear feel, with focused acidity and well-defined tannins. Citrus notes lift the palate and carry through a refined finish."  Rating: 95+                                                                                                     
• James Suckling — 95 pts: "This wine shines with freshness and transparency, full of red currants, red cherries and intense violets against a meaty background. Lightly extracted and medium-bodied, showing crisp, brilliant acidity and velvety tannins. A touch of sternness in the tense, fragrant finish. Drinkable now but best from 2027."

Winemaker Notes

Paolo Scavino Barolo Monvigliero 2022 750ml

Great finesse and aromatic complexity, distinctly floral spicy, savory, balsamic in its expression. The nose is vivid and compound. The texture is focused. An extremely elegant cru, feminine and full of character. 

Vineyard & Provenance

• Grape: Nebbiolo
• Appellation: Barolo DOCG, Piedmont
• Vineyard: Monvigliero, Verduno
• Producer: Paolo Scavino
• Vintage: 2021
• Size: 750ml

Food Pairings

A classic Piedmontese pairing — exceptional with braised beef, osso buco, white truffle dishes, aged Parmigiano-Reggiano, wild boar ragù, and roasted lamb.

Icardi Langhe Nebbiolo Surisjvan Organic 2024 750ml

A wine of honesty, character, and integrity from one of Piedmont's most committed organic estates. The Icardi family has been growing grapes since 1914, farming in full harmony with nature — no herbicides, no pesticides, no nitrogen fertilizers. Just certified organic viticulture and a deep respect for the land.

Tasting Notes

100% Nebbiolo. Perfumed and elegant with inviting aromas of rose petals, violets, red berries, and spice. Medium-bodied and juicy with succulent cherry fruit, savory richness, and earthy complexity, framed by sturdy yet fine-grained tannins and beautifully integrated oak.

Food Pairings

• Braised meats, osso buco, and slow-cooked lamb
• Aged cheeses and charcuterie boards
• Mushroom risotto and truffle dishes
• Roasted pork and game birds

Wine Details

• Varietal: Nebbiolo
• Region: Langhe, Piedmont, Italy
• Vintage: 2024
• Size: 750ml
• Farming: Certified Organic
• Producer: Icardi

Expert Reviews - Vintage 2021

James Suckling 94 Points | This exhibits violets and tar, as well as underbrush and a distant bitter-chocolate note. The palate is angular and incisive, well-constructed with a harmonious interplay between the focused acidity, fine grained tannins and delineated, fleshy fruit. Precise. Best ever from here. Better in 2028.

The Wine Spectator by Bruce Sanderson 94 Points | A sleek, elegant red, silky in texture and linear in profile. Rose, macerated cherry, strawberry, mineral and spice flavors abound, while a line of energetic tannins shows up on the long finish. This wine's purity and structure show the potential of the vintage.

Jeb Dunnuck by Audrey Frick 93 Points |  One of the overachievers of the vintage for a regional Barolo and a strong contender for top of the year lists, the 2021 Barolo Ludo pours a reflective brick red color and is attractive on the nose with notes of cinnamon sticks, fresh cherries, mossy earth, and anise. The palate offers a good balance of richness in the structure of its medium-bodied frame, with ripe tannins, lovely clarity of fruit, and refreshing ripe acidity. A gorgeous entry-level Barolo, it’s stunning now and has the potential to age with ease over the next 12-15 years.

Memo Summary Notes

The Poderi Luigi Einaudi Barolo "Ludo" 2021 is a significant release, as 2021 is being hailed as an exceptional, "best-ever" vintage for this specific bottling. Unlike Einaudi’s single-vineyard crus (like Cannubi or Bussia), Ludo is a blend of Nebbiolo from younger vines across those famous sites, designed to be more approachable in its youth.

Why "Ludo"? The name comes from the Latin ludus, meaning "playful."

Pair with Wild mushroom risotto or tajarin pasta with truffles.

Meats: Braised beef short ribs or herb-crusted lamb chops.

Cheese: Aged Grana Padano or Castelmagno.

Winemaker Description 

A superb and age-worthy Barolo by Giacomo Conterno, from the Francia vineyard in Serralunga d’Alba. 100% Nebbiolo. Fermented with native yeasts and aged in large oak casks. Red fruits, roses, tar, licorice and spices notes. Powerful and complex. 

Expert Reviews - Vintage 2018 

Expert Reviews 97 Points Wine Advocate | Of the three Barolo samples I tasted from barrel (including Arione and Cerretta, which are also from Serralunga d'Alba), the Giacomo Conterno 2018 Barolo Francia was the furthest behind and the hardest to pin down at this stage in its infancy. I have opened my range of scores accordingly to compensate for the magical unknowns that are likely to occur as the wine moves toward greater harmony and integration before its commercial release. The wine is linear and pointedly focused, lacking the width and volume it will gain when given more time to flesh out and relax. The aromas are also quite primary and simple at this point, with dark cherry and even a hint of ripe strawberry ceding gradually to grilled herb, blue flower and baked brick. This vintage of Barolo Francia will require patience. (2018).

95 Points Wine Spectator | Delivers depth and power, with menthol and wild herbs shading cherry and plum flavors. The balance tips toward the tannins in the end, yet this doesn't feel overly astringent, just more structured than many '18s. Picks up a mineral element as this lingers on the finish. Be patient. (2018).

95+ Points Vinous | The 2018 Barolo Francia is powerful, deep and also a touch austere. It shows the edginess of all the 2018s, but also has a feeling of textural creaminess that adds tons of character. Spice, menthol, leather and a whole range of balsamic overtones build into the deep, imposing finish. Roberto Conterno decided to forego his Barolo Monfortino in 2018, opting instead to blend all the casks into his Francia bottling. When that happens, Francia often surprises down the road. That could very well turn out to be the case here. (2018).

Monica Larner writes:  The Giacomo Conterno 2018 Barolo Francia has opened beautifully since I last tasted this wine at the winery two years ago. It was closed back then (no surprise since I tasted it as an unfinished sample), but with the distance of time, the wine has blossomed to show blackcurrant, cassis, aniseed, blue flower and pencil shaving. The Francia is known for its magical combination of power and nuance, both delivered with seamless intensity. This vintage offers a savory component with hints of toasted spice or spent ember. The tannins are fine and polished.  - Robert Parker Wine Advocate 95

Expert Reviews - Vintage 2022

Decanter 93 Points | The 2022 is a charming, elegant rendition of the vintage expressing raspberry and strawberry with snaps of coriander and allspice. Seamless in flow, the palate is underscored by sweet acid and framed by soft, silky tannins. Juicy and drinkable now but with enough grip for the next seven to eight years. A blend of the estate's parcels in the distinguished MGAs of Rabajà, Rabajà-bas and Faset, Castello di Verduno's classic Barbaresco ages in large Slavonian oak casks.

Vinous 92 Points | The 2022 Barbaresco is a gracious, classy wine that captures the essence of the house style. Crushed flowers, sweet, red-toned fruit, orange peel, spice and rose petals are some of the notes that grace this understated, sensual Barbaresco. Soft tannins add to a feeling of approachability. What a pretty and engaging wine this is.

Jeb Dunnuck 90 Points | Pouring a bright medium ruby hue, the 2022 Barbaresco opens to notes of ripe cranberries, cinnamon, orange peel, and fresh flowers. The palate retains very nice freshness in this hot, dry vintage, with refreshing acidity, ripe tannins, and a clean, medium-bodied feel with a graceful and fruity finish. It's a highly charming offering to drink over the coming 6-8 years.

Memo Summary Notes

Verduno is a small town and the histories of the wineries located there are intertwined.

The Castle of Verduno, constructed in the early 1500s, was under the jurisdiction of the House of Savoy for much of its history until the Burlotto family purchased it in 1909.

The winery's philosophy is to produce wines that speak of place in a classic way and are also sustainable and protect the land. As such, they practice organic farming and are meticulous both in the vineyard and in the cellar. Minimal SO2 and also vinifies with indigenous yeast. Their wines are firmly traditional in style though never rustic; in fact just the opposite, they retain a rare elegance and purity.

Pair with

• Traditional: Tajarin pasta with a butter and sage sauce or a rich meat ragù.

• Savory: Roast pork tenderloin, braised beef short ribs, or a wild mushroom risotto.

Warehouse stored item - please allow one to three business days to fulfill.

The color of the wine is a ruby red, lively and pleasant. Its bouquet reminds of flowers and fruits, like small red fruits or violets, but it has also a spicy note. On the palate, the taste is elegant, full-bodied and savoury, characteristics due to its rounded tannins typical of Castiglione Falletto cru.

Expert Review - Vintage 2022

Vinous 91 Points | The 2022 Barbaresco is a fine entry-level offering from Giacosa. This perfumed, mid-weight Barbaresco is all charm. Crushed flowers, bright red fruit, blood orange, spice and mint open first. Silky, polished tannins give this pliant, alluring Barbaresco tons of character. A delight.

Memo Summary Notes

Carlo Giacosa is a fourth-generation family estate in the heart of Barbaresco. 

Critical Acclaim — Vintage 2019

Wine Spectator — 97 Points
"This pure and stylish Barolo features rose, strawberry, cherry, mineral and underbrush aromas and flavors. Though silky in texture, this is well-structured, with integrated tannins and harmony. This is all about finesse and texture, with excellent length and a mineral aftertaste."

About Monprivato

Monprivato is one of the most celebrated single-vineyard crus in all of Barolo — and Giuseppe Mascarello’s exclusive domain. Located in Castiglione Falletto, the vineyard sits on a south-southwest facing slope of Helvetian soils: compact Tortonian marl and limestone that impart the signature minerality, structure, and aromatic complexity for which Monprivato is legendary. The Mascarello family has farmed Monprivato since 1904 and today owns virtually the entire cru — a rarity in Barolo, where vineyard fragmentation is the norm. The result is a wine of singular identity: unmistakably Monprivato, unmistakably Mascarello.

About Giuseppe e Figlio Mascarello

Founded in 1881 in Monchiero and later relocated to Castiglione Falletto, Giuseppe Mascarello e Figlio is one of Piedmont’s most revered and traditional producers. Under the stewardship of Mauro Mascarello — and now his son Giuseppe — the estate has remained steadfastly committed to traditional Barolo winemaking: long macerations, large Slavonian oak casks, and extended aging. No shortcuts, no modernization for its own sake. The Mascarello Barolo Monprivato is consistently ranked among the greatest wines of Italy and among the finest Nebbiolos produced anywhere in the world.

2019 Vintage Notes

The 2019 vintage in Piedmont is widely regarded as one of the greatest in a generation — a warm, dry year that produced wines of exceptional concentration, structure, and longevity. For Barolo, 2019 delivered the ideal combination of ripeness and natural acidity, resulting in wines that are approachable young yet built to age for decades. Monprivato 2019 is considered a benchmark release: powerful, precise, and destined for a long cellar life.

Food Pairings

White truffle dishes, braised Piedmontese beef (brasato al Barolo), wild boar, roasted lamb, aged Parmigiano-Reggiano, and tajarin with meat ragù. A wine built for the Piedmontese table — and for the most special occasions.

Product Details

• Producer: Giuseppe e Figlio Mascarello
• Vineyard: Monprivato (single vineyard cru)
• Appellation: Barolo DOCG, Castiglione Falletto, Piedmont, Italy
• Grape: 100% Nebbiolo
• Soils: Tortonian marl and limestone (Helvetian)
• Aging: Extended aging in large Slavonian oak casks, traditional method
• Vintage: 2019
• Drink: 2026–2050+
• Style: Elegant, structured, age-worthy traditional Barolo
• Format: 750ml

About This Wine — A Rare Expression of Nebbiolo

Rose delle Casasse is widely considered the only Barbaresco produced entirely from Nebbiolo Rosé — a grape that, while related to Nebbiolo, has been proven genetically distinct. As noted by ampelographer Ian d’Agata in his landmark book Native Wine Grapes of Italy, Nebbiolo Rosé is not simply a clone but its own variety, making this Riserva a genuinely singular wine in the Barbaresco appellation.

Cascina Baricchi is a small husband-and-wife estate in Neive, farming with deep respect for the land and producing wines of remarkable character and authenticity. The Rose delle Casasse vineyard gives a wine of uncommon delicacy and complexity — more aromatic and fine-boned than classic Nebbiolo, yet no less age-worthy.

Expert Reviews — Vintage 2016

Vinous — 94 Points
"The 2016 Barbaresco Riserva Rose delle Casasse is a fine follow-up to the stellar 2015. A bit more austere than its older sibling, the 2016 presents a distinctly savory profile redolent of crushed flowers, herbs, mint, spice, leather and tobacco, while the fruit is pushed into the background. This is such a gorgeous wine."

Jeb Dunnuck — 93 Points
"Made entirely from the Rosé clone of Nebbiolo, this is fresh with wild raspberry, pine, and dark earth. Medium body and good concentration, with fine tannins and a good finish of peppery spice and red cherry. Refreshing and cleanses the palate nicely."

Food Pairings

A natural match for salumi, aged hard cheeses, roasted lamb, braised Piedmontese beef, and truffle-based dishes. Decant for at least 45 minutes; will continue to develop beautifully with additional cellaring.

Product Details

• Producer: Cascina Baricchi
• Region: Barbaresco DOCG, Piedmont, Italy
• Grape: Nebbiolo Rosé (100%)
• Classification: Barbaresco Riserva
• Vineyard: Rose delle Casasse
• Vintage: 2016
• Format: 750ml

Winemaker Description

The 2019 Bernardot is dark and austere with wonderful nuances of ripe red fruit. Tannins are very silky and delicate in this 2019, showing a lot of finesse, typical from the Barbaresco area. It’s an elegant and very expressive Barbaresco. One of the favorite vineyards of winemaker Alessandro Ceretto.

Expert Reviews

Wine Advocate Monica Larner 95 Points writes | The organic Ceretto 2019 Barbaresco Bernadot shows a broader character and a more open-knit personality compared to the Asili. There is a lot of dark fruit, spice, truffle and earth to frame the medium-build of this elegant wine.  (2019).

Wine Spectator 94 Points | A bright red, delivering a core of cherry and raspberry fruit supported by earth, mineral and wild herbs. Intense, complex and dense, this is solidly built and persists with an aftertaste of dark fruit, mineral and spice. Best from 2025. (2019).

A rare and highly age-worthy expression of Nebbiolo from the heart of Barbaresco, the Quindicianni 2010 represents the pinnacle of patience and traditional winemaking at Cascina Baricchi. A true library release, this wine is aged for extended periods before release, resulting in extraordinary complexity, depth, and refinement.

Expert Ratings

97 James Suckling: Restrained and profound wine which shines on the nose for the Parma violets and potpourri, earth and minerals, almost stony, together with licorice, dried cherries and strawberries, rhubarb whiffs and citrus freshness. It is exquisitely integrated on the nose. Medium- to full-bodied, juicy and firm with ripe, velvety tannins and sleek, elegant depth, again with citrus flavors. Focused, polished and long.

Winemaker Notes

Pio Cesare Barolo Chinato 750ml

Experience the unique Pio Cesare Barolo Chinato, a distinctive Italian aromatized wine celebrated for its intricate blend of aromatic herbs, spices, and quinine. This enchanting drink captures the essence of Barolo wine, enhancing it with complex flavors that are hard to resist. Crafted from Barolo wine and infused with a medley of botanicals, it offers a unique tasting experience that has earned exceptional critical acclaim with dual 94-point scores. Ideal after a meal as a digestif, Pio Cesare Barolo Chinato is designed to tantalize your taste buds and stimulate your senses, making every sip memorable.

Outstanding Critical Acclaim - 94 Points

Jeb Dunnuck - 94 Points
"A rich but transparent amber, the NV Barolo Chinato reveals notes of blood orange, baking spice, mocha, and rosemary, followed by a medium to full-bodied red with sweetness and delicate, attractive bitterness in its hints of tea leaf and orange peel. Lifted and not heavy, it would be perfect paired with chocolate."

Robert Parker's Wine Advocate - 94 Points
"The Pio Cesare NV Barolo Chinato pours from the bottle with a dark amber color with shiny chestnut highlights. This fortified digestif shows amazing purity and intensity, with aromas that you can list and identify clearly one by one. There is balsam and medicinal herb with minty cough syrupy, cola and candied orange peel. With time, you might also sense some Moroccan spice or toasted Spanish cedarwood. The alcohol content is registered at 16% although it surely feels much higher. Balanced sweetness wraps smoothly over the palate. I'm never quite sure how to assign a drinking window to Barolo Chinato, and it is ostensibly built to last forever."

Pio Cesare Heritage

Pio Cesare is one of Piedmont's most prestigious wine producers, with a history dating back to 1881. For over 140 years, the Pio Cesare family has been crafting exceptional wines in the heart of Barolo country. Their Barolo Chinato represents a traditional Piedmontese specialty that showcases their commitment to quality and tradition.

What is Barolo Chinato?

Barolo Chinato is a distinctive Italian aromatized wine, a traditional Piedmontese specialty created by infusing Barolo wine with a blend of aromatic herbs, spices, and quinine (china bark). This fortified digestif combines the noble character of Barolo with complex botanical flavors, creating a unique tasting experience. The result is a rich, herbal profile that makes it perfect for sipping as a digestif or using in sophisticated cocktails.

Amazing Purity & Intensity

As Wine Advocate notes, this fortified digestif shows "amazing purity and intensity, with aromas that you can list and identify clearly one by one." The clarity and precision of the botanical infusion demonstrates Pio Cesare's mastery of this traditional specialty.

Tasting Profile

Appearance: Rich but transparent amber. Dark amber color with shiny chestnut highlights
Aroma: Notes of blood orange, baking spice, mocha, and rosemary. Balsam and medicinal herb with minty cough syrupy character, cola and candied orange peel. Moroccan spice and toasted Spanish cedarwood. Hints of spices and herbs
Palate: Medium to full-bodied with sweetness and delicate, attractive bitterness. Hints of tea leaf and orange peel. Balanced sweetness wraps smoothly over the palate. Multifaceted, combining herbal, floral, and fruity notes. Layers of cherry, caramel, and floral essences. Smooth texture with vibrant flavors
Finish: Lifted and not heavy. Harmonious balance with lingering botanical complexity

16% Alcohol - Fortified Character

The alcohol content is registered at 16%, giving this aromatized wine a fortified character that enhances its complexity and longevity. As Wine Advocate notes, "it surely feels much higher," testament to the intensity and richness of the flavors.

Built to Last Forever

Wine Advocate observes: "I'm never quite sure how to assign a drinking window to Barolo Chinato, and it is ostensibly built to last forever." This exceptional longevity makes Pio Cesare Barolo Chinato a worthy addition to any collection, with the ability to age gracefully for years.

Perfect Pairing with Chocolate

As Jeb Dunnuck notes, this Barolo Chinato "would be perfect paired with chocolate." The combination of sweetness, bitterness, and complex botanicals creates an ideal match for chocolate desserts, making it an exceptional choice for after-dinner indulgence.

Versatile Serving Options

Enjoying Pio Cesare Barolo Chinato is quite versatile:

• Neat: Sip it at room temperature to appreciate full complexity
• On the rocks: Serve over ice for a refreshing digestif
• In cocktails: Mix into sophisticated cocktails for unique twist
• Negroni-style drinks: Try it as part of a Negroni variation
• With orange: Serve with a slice of orange to enhance citrus notes

Exceptional Food Pairing Suggestions

Its unique taste pairs wonderfully with:

• Chocolate desserts and dark chocolate
• Desserts and sweet treats
• Cheese platters and aged cheeses
• After-dinner service
• Biscotti and Italian cookies
• Nuts and dried fruits

Traditional Piedmontese Digestif

Barolo Chinato is a traditional Piedmontese specialty, historically enjoyed as a digestif after meals. The combination of Barolo wine, botanicals, and quinine creates a drink that aids digestion while providing a sophisticated conclusion to dining experiences.

Botanical Complexity

Crafted from Barolo wine and infused with a medley of botanicals and quinine, the flavor profile is multifaceted. The intricate blend of aromatic herbs and spices creates layers of complexity that reveal themselves with each sip, making it a delight for the palate.

Perfect for Any Occasion

Whether you are celebrating a special occasion or simply winding down after a long day, Pio Cesare Barolo Chinato promises to enhance any moment with its rich flavor and aromatic complexity. Its sophisticated character makes it ideal for entertaining or personal enjoyment.

Sophisticated Cocktail Ingredient

This makes it not only an excellent digestif but also a sophisticated cocktail ingredient that can elevate your beverage game. The unique taste and complex botanical profile add depth and character to creative cocktail creations.

Sensory Experience

The intriguing aroma carries hints of spices and herbs, enhancing the sensory experience. Every sip is designed to tantalize your taste buds and stimulate your senses, creating a memorable drinking experience that showcases the artistry of traditional Piedmontese winemaking.

Expert Reviews — Vintage 2019

Wine Enthusiast 95 Points — Editors' Choice (Kerin O’Keefe) | Delicate aromas of blue flower, red berry and a hint of underbrush. Elegant and firmly structured, the savory palate offers crushed raspberry, ripe cherry and baking spice alongside taut tannins. Fresh acidity keeps it balanced. Drink 2027–2039.

Vinous 94 Points (Antonio Galloni) | Sweet red cherry, kirsch, rose petal, mint, spice, earthiness, crushed rocks and pipe tobacco — all beautifully lifted. Medium in body with compelling inner sweetness and tons of finesse. Positively stellar, and unusually for a Rabajà, it will drink well with minimal cellaring.

Decanter 92 Points | Great complexity of pot pourri, wild strawberry, cherry and licorice. Tannins are firm yet fine, bold and fleshy with energy and pep. Austere yet precise finish.

About the Wine

The Castello di Verduno Barbaresco Riserva Rabajà 2019 is a masterpiece of traditional winemaking from one of the most famous and powerful crus in Barbaresco. The Riserva is only produced in exceptional years, and the 2019 vintage in Piedmont is widely considered classic and high-structured — making this a true collector’s item with decades of life ahead.

Tasting & Pairings

Blue flower, crushed raspberry, ripe cherry, kirsch, rose petal, baking spice, earthiness, and pipe tobacco. Firmly structured with taut, fine-grained tannins and fresh acidity. Decant generously or cellar through 2039.

• Braised lamb shank or veal osso buco — the firm tannins and acidity are built for rich, slow-cooked meats.
• Handmade tajarin with butter and sage — a classic Piedmontese pairing that lets the wine’s complexity shine.
• Aged Castelmagno or Toma Piemontese — regional cheeses that complement Nebbiolo’s earthy depth.

Expert Reviews — Vintage 2020

James Suckling 97 Points | An elegant and stylish wine with fresh violets, roses, wild strawberries, earthy minerals and hints of Sichuan pepper and licorice on the nose. Full-bodied, firm, tense and fresh with a dusty texture, yet tight and well packed. Austere finish.

Wine Spectator 95 Points | A high-toned aroma of rose petal meets earth and savory underbrush notes in this multifaceted red. Flavors of strawberry and cherry hold the middle ground, while bracing acidity and sinewy tannins lend support. Long and elegant, with a lasting aftertaste of ripe cherry.

Winemaker Notes

Pajé is a small 1.83-hectare (4.52-acre) strip of land facing southwest, particularly rich in calcareous marl with a high content of active limestone. The amphitheater of Pajé opens onto the Tanaro river valley, which mitigates cold winters and hot summers, creating a unique microclimate. The vines range from 25 to 50 years of age (averaging over 40), and all new plantings are propagated using the massale selection method — clippings pruned exclusively from the Pajé vineyard itself.

About Roagna

The Roagna Barbaresco Pajé 2020 is a legendary release from one of the most artisanal and traditionalist producers in the Langhe. Luca Roagna is known for "monastic" patience, often aging his wines for five years or more before they leave the cellar.

The 2020 vintage is characterized by a "velvet glove" elegance — more approachable in its youth than the structured 2019s, showing silkier tannins while maintaining the estate's signature power and depth.

Tasting & Pairings

Expect classic Nebbiolo aromatics — dried rose, tar, red cherry, and earthy spice — wrapped in silky, fine-grained tannins with remarkable length. This is a wine built for contemplation but generous enough to enjoy now with proper decanting.

• Braised short ribs or osso buco — the tannin structure and acidity cut through rich, slow-cooked meats.
• Truffle risotto or tajarin pasta — a classic Piedmontese pairing that lets the wine shine.
• Aged Parmigiano-Reggiano or Castelmagno — hard, nutty cheeses complement Nebbiolo’s complexity.

Winemaker Description

Intense ruby red. The nose displays typical freshness of Vajra Barolo, with a weave of roses and ripe cherries, fresh mountain herbs and orange zest. In the mouth, bitter sweet and persistent flavors. Beautiful as a digestive or paired with dark chocolate. 18% alcohol.

Memo Summary Notes

The G.D. Vajra Barolo Chinato is a sophisticated, fortified "digestif" from Piedmont, Italy. Unlike standard Barolo, this is an aromatized wine (similar to a premium vermouth) made by infusing Barolo DOCG wine with a secret blend of nearly 30 herbs, roots, and spices.

Warehouse stored item - please allow two to five business days to fulfill.

Martinenga Nebbiolo Langhe DOC by Marchesi di Gresy is a pure and refined expression of Nebbiolo, one of the most noble and representative vines of Piedmont. This wine originates from the prestigious Martinenga estate, located in the renowned Langhe area, the beating heart of Piedmontese viticulture, where Nebbiolo finds the maximum expression of its character.

Expert Rating

Vinous Stephen Tanzer writes 93 Points | (from 63-year-old vines in the center of the vineyard; aged in a combination of old barriques and new larger casks) Sweet aromas of redcurrant, cherry, smoke and mint, all lifted by high notes of orange peel, rose petal and minerals. Concentrated, vibrant and gripping, with a silky quality and noteworthy precision to the flavors of red fruits, spices and minerals. Harmonious acidity gives a juicy, sappy quality and real elegance to this densely packed Barbaresco. Here the tannins are considerably finer than those of the normale, and the long, juicy, gripping finish leaves behind a captivating floral perfume. A beauty. 

This is from a massale selection, including a bit of the lighter, floral rose clone of nebbiolo while the rest of the vineyard features five different clones. 

Winemaker Description

The soils are of marine origin from the Tertiary era, characterized by bluish marl (at a depth ranging from 1 to 3 meters), calcareous, compact structure. The stratification is dense and varied, rich in mineral salts and natural springs.

Barbaresco Rio Sordo receives careful grape selection in the vineyard – 100% Nebbiolo. The immediately noticeable characteristics are the considerable complexity and depth, accompanied by elegance and finesse.

Expert Review

Robert Parker Wine Advocate 94+ Monica Larner | A release of about 3,000 bottles, the 2018 Barbaresco Rio Sordo shows the finesse and delicate fruit that is so well expressed by this estate. The bouquet is redolent of rose hip and crushed flowers, and you get cassis, wild cherry and dried pomegranate as well. There is a giant layer of minty herb, and then the wine finally relaxes with polished tones of crushed stone and white licorice. Cascina delle Rose makes a fine bottle of Barbaresco. 

Winemaker Description

Intense garnet red color. Very classic and traditional with a robust structure and intense tannins. Bouquet takes a little time to show itself with slight hints of yeast. It opens slowly in the glass touch of spice and menthol. In the final, the powerful structure and concentration soften the tannins potential. Pairs well with game, red meats, and cheeses.

Expert Reviews

Wine Advocate 95 Points | The Vietti 2020 Barolo Ravera offers dark fruit cherry and blackcurrant enhanced by soft spice. You also get a sun-kissed note of eggplant tomato leaf and ferrous earth. Ravera displays strong lines with good acidity and firm tannic backbone. It closes dry and ages in large oak botte only. This is one of the most eyeballed MGAs sites. Ravera with its open mountain skyline and cool temperatures is seen as one of the best sites in the appellation especially as the climate changes. This vintage produced exactly 10026 bottles.

Vinous 94 Points | Picked on October 9 and 10 the 2020 Barolo Ravera has plenty of Ravera classicism and tension but also feels a bit light in the mid-palate. Ravera is never a huge wine in body but the depth is often there even if expressed in an understated and more linear manner. The 2020 lacks that depth. Red-toned fruit blood orange mint spice and white pepper lend brilliance throughout.

Winemaker Description

Intense ruby red color. Generous nose with aromas of ripe red berry fruit with spicy overtones. Intense on the palate, quite rich though very elegant and well-balanced. The tannins are present, but very well integrated in the fruit structure of the wine. Long aftertaste with good freshness. A wine with extraordinary finesse and balance. Pair with red meats, roasts, and wild game.

Expert Reviews

Vinous 98 Points | The 2019 Barolo Cerequio is a worthy follow up to the stellar 2018. Aromatic and deeply pitched, the 2019 races across the palate with remarkable depth and intensity. Crushed red berry fruit, rose petal, mint and cinnamon all open in the glass, but it is the wine's silkiness and suppleness that impresses most. A kick of acids and tannins puts an exclamation point on the finish. This is a gorgeous Cerequio that takes all the finesse this site offers, and then turns up the volume. What a wine.

Robert Parker 97+ Points | Vietti was able to buy a 9,000-square meter piece of Cerequio from Michele Chiarlo, arguably the king of this celebrated cru. And because this is a new addition to the portfolio, the Vietti team is still learning the ropes. For example, there is a fresh minty tone that pops up from the bouquet of the 2019 Barolo Cerequio. "That minty note was a mystery to us," Luca Currado tells me. "But then we understood that its part of Cerequio." This wine shows a firm grip on the palate that does extend out to include some textural softness, but it ultimately remains quite structured. Among the grand cru sites of La Morra, Luca Currado tells me that "Cerequio is the brother and Brunate is the sister." His wife Elena Penna adds, "We've never had two sites so close to one another show such a great difference between them.

Jeb Dunnuck 94 Points | Coming from La Morra, a more fruit-forward tone can be found in the licorice spice and depth of the 2019 Barolo Cerequio, which offers slightly darker fruit, ripe berries, and peppercorn. This was the second vintage produced and is more approachable now for the vintage. It is a joyful wine though it still has ripe structure.

Icardi Barbaresco Montubert Organic 2020 750ml

A benchmark Barbaresco from one of Piedmont's most principled organic estates. The Icardi family has farmed without herbicides or pesticides since 1914, and the Montubert vineyard expresses the full nobility of Nebbiolo — structured, aromatic, and built to age gracefully.

James Suckling 93 Points: Red-fruited and spiced with crushed walnuts and licorice. Medium-bodied with polished, delicate tannins. Fresh and vivid fruit character with a polished mineral finish and hints of citrus peel and dried herbs.

Wine Enthusiast 91 Points: Sweetly spiced and charming, showing aromas of candied cherries, allspice, cedar, and mixed wild herbs. Elegant tannins with flavors of dried cranberries and dried orange peel. Drink now–2035.

Wine Spectator 90 Points: Savory with juniper, eucalyptus, and mint accenting a cherry, strawberry, and floral core. Lean and taut with dusty tannins. Best from 2027 through 2042.

Food Pairings

• Braised short ribs, osso buco, and slow-roasted lamb
• Aged Parmigiano-Reggiano and hard cheeses
• Truffle pasta, mushroom risotto, and game meats
• Roasted duck and venison

Wine Details

• Varietal: Nebbiolo
• Appellation: Barbaresco DOCG, Piedmont, Italy
• Vintage: 2020
• Size: 750ml
• Farming: Certified Organic
• Producer: Icardi

Michele Chiarlo Tortoniano Barolo DOCG — Piedmont, Italy 2022

Michele Chiarlo has been vinifying the essence of Piedmont since 1956 — one of the region’s most visionary and historically significant producers. Founder Michele Chiarlo was among the first in Italy to introduce malolactic fermentation, and long before DOC laws were adopted, he was already aging his wines in oak and bottle for extended periods. Today the estate farms the finest crus of Barolo, Barbaresco, Nizza, and Gavi, using indigenous grapes — Nebbiolo, Barbera, Cortese, Moscato — to express the full depth of Piedmontese terroir. Tortoniano takes its name from the Tortonian-era soils in which the vines are planted — ancient marine sediments laid down 9 million years ago, rich in magnesium and manganese, that give the wine its distinctive mineral character and longevity. Grape clusters are thinned and harvested up to 15 days later than usual for maximum concentration, then aged two years in large oak casks and one year in bottle before release. 

Garnet with brilliant luminous hues. The nose is inviting and complex: rose petals, juniper berries, and fine spices — the unmistakable signature of great Nebbiolo. On the palate, it is elegant with ample structure and silky tannins, and a long, refined finish that speaks clearly of its ancient soils. A Barolo of real depth and class.

• Producer: Michele Chiarlo, Calamandrana, Piedmont, Italy (est. 1956)
• Vintage: 2022
• Appellation: Barolo DOCG
• Varietal: 100% Nebbiolo — Tortonian-era soils (9 million years old), rich in magnesium & manganese
• Aging: 2 years in large oak casks + 1 year in bottle before release
• Size: 750ml
• Tasting Notes: Rose petals, juniper berries, fine spices, elegant structure, silky tannins, long refined finish
• Best Paired With: Mushroom pasta, roasted fowl, braised beef, matured cheeses, truffle dishes

A 9-million-year-old terroir in a glass — Michele Chiarlo Tortoniano is the benchmark for what classic Barolo can be.

Michele Chiarlo Reyna Barbaresco DOCG — Piedmont, Italy 2023

Barbaresco is known as the queen of Italian wine — and Reyna (“queen” in Piedmontese dialect) is Michele Chiarlo’s tribute to that regal character. Sourced from steep hillside vineyards in Barbaresco and Neive, facing southeast and southwest, the vines are planted in bluish-grey calcareous clay marl rich in microelements — the same ancient soils that define the finest expressions of Nebbiolo in the Langhe. Grapes are hand-harvested 10–15 days later than normal for maximum ripeness and concentration, then fermented at controlled temperatures, put through malolactic fermentation, and aged 18 months in large casks of French Allier and Slavonian oak before bottle aging. James Suckling awarded it 92 points. 

Garnet red with brilliant hues. The nose is fine and expressive: small red fruits, rose petals, tea leaves, prunes, black cherries, licorice, and smashed flowers with a deep rhubarb undertone. On the palate, it is medium-bodied with firm, dusty yet polished tannins, brilliant acidity, and a long, tight, aristocratic finish full of flavor. Drink now or hold.

James Suckling 92 (Aldo Fiordelli) — “A ripe, fruity style, showing prunes, black cherries, licorice and bark, plus vibrant smashed flowers and a deep rhubarb undertone. Medium-bodied, offering firm, dusty yet polished tannins, with brilliant acidity and a tight, tense finish.” (Vintage 2023). 

• Producer: Michele Chiarlo, Calamandrana, Piedmont, Italy (est. 1956)
• Vintage: 2023
• Appellation: Barbaresco DOCG
• Varietal: 100% Nebbiolo — Barbaresco & Neive, bluish-grey calcareous clay marl
• Aging: 18 months in large French Allier & Slavonian oak casks + bottle aging
• Size: 750ml
• Tasting Notes: Red fruits, rose petals, tea leaves, prunes, black cherry, licorice, smashed flowers, polished tannins
• Best Paired With: Risotto, braised veal shank, lamb with herbs, truffle dishes, aged Parmigiano

The queen of Italian wine from one of Piedmont’s founding estates — Michele Chiarlo Reyna is the benchmark for what classic Barbaresco can be.