Darker color than expected for a 12 year Barbaresco. Outstanding aromas feature blackberry, black cherry and a distinct floral note. The palate is surprisingly robust. The flavors follow the aromas, the black fruit more pronounced, the floral notes a little muted, with tannic heft and a lot of breadth, good backing acidity. This is closer to primary than secondary, no regrets about opening this, but I’ll wait at least three years before opening another. Rated 91.5, up to three points of improvement likely. This is a long distance runner and I would not be surprised if it peaked around 2025.
Dan Kravitz