Produttori del Barbaresco, Barbaresco, Ovello Riserva 2021

Displaying a saturated medium red hue, the 2021 Barbaresco Riserva Ovello offers notes of dusty cedar, red cherries, raspberries, and crushed stones, although the wood tones will need time to fully integrate. Medium-bodied, the palate has beautiful brightness, with hints of apricot and stone fruit along with a more linear, elegant structure. For me, this wine holds a very special place in the range and quietly stopped me in my tracks during the tasting. Roughly 16,666 bottles were produced. Drink 2026-2056.

The 2021 Barbaresco Riserva Ovello sizzles with tension right out of the gate. Orange peel, mint, chalk, white pepper and crushed rocks are all finely sketched. Bright and sinewy to the core, the 2021 captures the purest essence of Ovello. It's another stellar wine in this range. The Ovello will appeal most to readers who like tense wines.