Giovanni ROSSO
2017 Langhe Nebbiolo
This is an attractive Nebbiolo with some tannin but also a forward expression of red cherry fruits. The body is medium-weight and the acidity is sufficient. DIAM 5 closure. Lot L19/17/N1. 14.0% stated alcohol. 88/B+
TINTERO
nv Rosso
Earthy, juicy red fruits in a medium-weight body. Nothing sophisticated, but an outstanding value. Made from Barbera, Dolcetto, Nebbiolo, Cabernet Sauvignon. Screwcap closure. Lot L 20031/2019. 12.5% stated alcohol. 86/A
2016 Barbaresco
Medium-weight, tannic, red cherry fruit aromas and flavors beneath the tannin. Give it 5-8 years in the cellar. Composition cork closure. 14% stated alcohol. Lot L19060. 88/B
G. D. VAJRA
One of my favorite producers in Piedmont.
2018 Langhe Riesling
Mineral nose and mouth, medium-full in mouth, clean finish. Raised in stainless steel. 87/A-
2015 Barolo Coste di Rose
Smoky floral nose. In mouth, dark fruits, chocolate, tannic structure. First vintage for Vajra with this vineyard; vines average about 25 years of age. 92/A
2015 Barolo Bricco delle Viole
Used to be the highest Barolo vineyard (now there are some that are even higher), which can only help in times of global warming. More closed at this point than the Coste di Rose. Chocolate flavors, intense, pure. 55-day maceration here. 93/A
VALLANA
2015 Colline Novaresi Spanna
At first rather tannic, with an hour or two of air, the wine softens. It is generous but also firm and structured with plenty of red cherries. I imagine it will be even better with a few years of bottle age. All Nebbiolo. DIAM 5 closure. 13% stated alcohol. Lot L 19919. 88+/B+
Castello di VERDUNO
2018 Verduno Bassadone
This wine is from the Pelaverga Piccolo grape, a specialty of the village of Verduno. The wine is transparent and ruby in appearance. It has rose and strawberry aromas and flavors that fall across the tongue. The wine is light on the palate and is very good for drinking with friends over a plate of cold cuts or cheese. Lot L 19-03A. 13.5% stated alcohol. 88/A