Barbaresco 'Basarin'

Score

92

"The 2016 Barbaresco Basarin (with 6,000 bottles made) shows some evident oak definition with very ripe fruit, dark cherry and exotic spice. The Basarin is aged in oak for 18 months. This wine offers thick textural fiber and lots of succulent richness. It brings a lot of volume and depth, although the quality of the Nebbiolo here just may be a touch too ripe, and I have reduced the drinking window as a result. Some 6,000 bottles were made."

Score

95

"Toasty oak wraps around the plum and cherry fruit in this lush red. Accents of menthol, tar and tobacco chime in as this builds to a long finish. Balanced and fresh, but needs time to integrate the oak. Best from 2023 through 2042. 400 cases made, 150 cases imported."

Score

93

"Black cherry, spice, leather, cedar and menthol infuse the 2016 Barbaresco Basarin with striking aromatic complexity. Powerful and resonant, with terrific depth, the 2016 has so much to offer. Today, a hint of reduction lingers, but otherwise, the Basarin is very pretty and expressive. The 2016 finishes with real cut and an array of floral notes that add perfume and brightness."