Here's a beautiful wine from the folks at Marchesi di Barolo. The 2012 Barbaresco Riserva is redolent of pressed flowers and roses. Red currant, blackberry, mild spice and campfire ash fill in the rear. Larger oak casks are used for aging and the neutral wood has gone a long way in preserving the integrity and the brightness of the fruit (despite the wine's age and the concentrated summer heat of the vintage). The finished result shows balance and finesse.

Aromas of plums, berries and almonds follow through to a full-bodied palate, with spicy, peppery fruit and a long, soft and round-textured finish. Gorgeous stuff. Best after 2006. 800 cases made, 150 cases imported.??–JS??Region: Italy / Piedmont / Barbaresco Select to Add