This estate has recently attracted attention in the US, and these wines show why. Moreover, they demonstrate also that the 2017 vintage can provide very good wines for drinking young while the 2016s take their time in the cellar.
2017 Barbaresco
This wine is forward with intense aromas and flavors of red cherries, raspberries and a bit of tar. The wine has a sensuous texture and there is some tannin here, but not enough to prevent enjoyment of the wine already. But it should last well for at least a couple of decades. At least for now, it is more pleasurable to drink than the more structured 2016. Cork closure. 14.5% stated alcohol. Lot L231/19. 92/A
2017 Barbaresco Montestefano
ThiMontestefano is more tannic and concentrated than the normale Barbaresco, and as a result will need 5-8 years’ cellaring to start to approach peak drinking. The wine has cranberry and other red fruits and a medium-weight body with plenty of tannic structure. Cork closure. 14.5% stated alcohol. Lot L233/19. 91+/A-
2017 Barbaresco Montefico Vigna Bric Mentina
As is typically the case, the Montefico is lighter and more elegant than the Montestefano here. The wine is medium-weight and smooth with tar, tea, and cranberry aromas and flavors. With an hour or two decant, the wine drinks well already but it has the balance to last quite a while. Cork closure. 14.5% stated alcohol. Lot L232/19. 93+/A