This is a splendid introduction to the style of 2020 Barolos.  The wine is drawn from old vines in Pio Cesare’s Mosconi vineyard in Monforte d’Alba.  It shows the elegance and balance of the 2020 harvest and exemplifies the complex and noble character of the Nebbiolo grape.  Layers of juicy black plum and cherry fruits are underlain by hints of dried rose, cocoa, leather, sandalwood, anise, tar, smoke and spice.  The tannins are quite supple for a young Barolo, allowing for relatively early enjoyment.  The beautiful, long finish reveals nuances at every turn.  Delicious now for its balance and finesse, it will cellar well for another 15+ years.

The 2020 Barolo Mosconi displays a darker ruby color and reveals a fantastic nose with spicier notes of fresh red cherries, incense, candied roses, fresh sage, and peppery spice. Elegant, with fine tannins and mouthwatering freshness, it’s ripe but very pure, with a long, clean finish. It’s delicious out of the gate but is sure to age with grace over the coming 15 years. I continue to be impressed with the consistency and value these wines have to offer, and readers should not sleep on them, since they’re widely available. Drink 2024-2040.

The 2020 Barolo Ornato expresses a wonderful floral profile on the nose, with loads of fresh roses, red raspberries, dried strawberries, white pepper, and fennel. It displays a more linear approach compared to the Mosconi (which has broader shoulders and more structure), with fine tannins, snappy acidity, and a bright lift on the finish. It is elegant and a touch nervous at this stage and will benefit from another year in bottle. Drink 2025-2037.

The 2020 Barbaresco Il Bricco pours a youthful ruby hue and is fragrant with fresh violets, black raspberries, crushed stones, and blood orange. Savory and lightly sanguine, the palate offers medium body, fine tannins, a refreshing lift of acidity, and a snappy, mouthwatering finish. It is ripe and inviting without ever feeling heavy and has a light, earthy finish. Drink 2024-2036.

Ripe ruby-colored, the 2020 Barbaresco Pio offers a lovely floral nose with notes of fresh cherries, roses, raspberries, and wet stones. Supple and midweight, it has a refined and stony texture, with fine tannins, a weightless feel, and a gorgeous fresh apricot perfume on the back palate. There’s a lot to love with this wine, and it’s going to have a wide drinking window over the next 10 years.